Customer Reviews

Tom Canta Vinicius: Ao Vivo

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Recorded live in Brazil in 1990 and not released in the U.S. until now, "Tom Canta Vinicius" (translate "Tom Sings Vinicius") is Tom Jobim's tribute to his songwriting partner Vincinius de Moraes. While de Moraes was not nearly as famous as Mr. Jobim, his standing as a bossa nova original is secure, having helped pen several of the best-loved songs of that genre. Many of those were performed in this concert, including my favorite bossa tune, "Insensatez," one of the most beautiful songs of all time. Jobim was accompanied by his son Paulo, Danilo Caymmi and the Morelenbaums. In fact, Paula Morelenbaum sung most of the lead vocals - and did a magnificent job. Tom sang a few numbers alone or in duet with Paula, in his sometimes thin or fragile-sounding voice (but not really a problem, because you can feel his love for the songs). The sound quality for the recording is excellent - intimate and natural, like they're playing in your living room.

I can basically only agree with the review below -- this is a well-recorded, lovingly performed tribute concert to Tom Jobim's long-time friend and collaborator Vincius de Moraes. Many of the classic songs are included in the program -- 'Insensatez', 'Felicidade', 'Samba de Carioca', 'Garota de Ipanema' (and the version here blows away ANY of the 'elevator music' interpretations you most likely have endured) -- and the participants are perfect, possibly the musicians most sympathetic to his music with whom the Master ever worked. The recording -- and live recordings are always a bit of a risk to the buyer -- is clear and quiet, the applause from the audience only audible between the tracks. This recording aptly captures Jobim's art -- and his love for it. It's a must-have for anyone who enjoys the best that Brazilian music has to offer -- his work is the pinnacle of the form.

The Morelenbaums -- Paula and Jacques, on vocals and cello, respecetively -- and Paolo Jobim, on guitar and vocals, are, of course, three-fourths of the incredible Quarteto Jobim-Morelenbaum, whose recording of a couple of years ago, dedicated to Tom Jobim's music, has become a modern classic in its own right. They are joined here by the fine work of Danilo Caymmi on flute and vocals. The support these wonderful musicians gently give to Tom's piano and vocals show their love and respect for this giant -- his contributions to modern music will, I feel certain, be eternally honored for their timeless beauty.

You will enjoy this CD - very beautiful (recorded live). Tom Jobim honors the man who influenced him and was his mentor and friend, Vinicius de Moraes.