Customer Reviews

Tropicalia 2

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

If you don't yet own any of Caetano Veloso or Gilberto Gil's CDs and are curious as to where to begin, go no further. This is a great starting point. Likewise, for those of us who have a fairly extensive collection of both musicians' work, this is a fantastic CD, because it brings together the 2 different songwriting styles and blends them seamlessly. This is sensuous, exotic, but above all extremely catchy pop. These guys are influenced by musicians ranging from Miles Davis to Jimi Hendrix, but the one thing that stays constant is the African rhythm. I've had it for 2 years, and don't foresee the day I'll be tired of this CD.

It had been 25 years of off and on musical partnership and constant friendship, and this album is the celebration. Like other recent efforts from each of them, just about every favorite genre is polished off and perfected, particularly samba but also baiao, straight-ahead rock, and a touch of reggae. If only they hadn't already made so much unforgettable music already, I'd say this is a remarkable album. As it is, I'll just say buy the album and hear a highpoint in the epic careers of Brazil's finest popular performers and experimental poets.

Most of my CD collection is Brazilian, and of the Brazilian CD's I own, this is definitely close to the top (along with the original Tropicália). Caetano and Gil make such perfect music together, you want to thank the heavens these two met early on in life--they were meant for each other. As always, these two legends effortless blend many different styles. A who's-who list of extraordinary musicians and the co-production of Liminha (former bassist in Os Mutantes and a brilliant producer) makes this a very special CD. Please check it out if you haven't already--and also check out the historical landmark "Tropicália--Panis et Circensis"!

Listening to Tropicalia 2 you remember all of a sudden why it is you like Brazilian popular music. This superb collection of songs from two of the greatest musicians of MPB shows what's wrong with the sullen and boring popmusic of today.

This is one of the finest pop albums of the '90s, as well as one of the best Brazilian records ever made. Gil's work in the '80s was spotty--he had an unhealthy fixation on reggae and while most of his albums, including the very nice "Um Banda Um," contained great songs, his stuff tended to be overproduced and lacking in the melodic finesse and mystery of his classic '60s and early-'70s work. Veloso I've always found a bit genteel, although his best work ranks with the best of Gil. But on this album the combination of Veloso's conventionally beautiful voice and Gil's somewhat more idiosyncratic vocals (and Gil's brilliant guitar playing) makes for a classic. "Tradicão," originally done on Gil's 1978 "Realce," is one of the most gorgeous performances I know. They sound glad to be recording together again. I'd compare this to what might have happened had Lennon lived to make a record with Paul McCartney; certainly Gil and Veloso compare favorably to the two British musicians who influenced them so much. The only questionable track is Hendrix' "Wait Until Tomorrow," originally done on the 1968 "Axis: Bold as Love." But if this indulges Gil's longtime fascination with the great American guitarist and songwriter, so be it. The rest of it is flawless, beautifully sung, and tinged with that Brazilian nostalgia called "saudade." A great one to start with, along with "Tropicália Essentials," if you want to get into these two artists.

I first received a copy of this album on cassette from a friend in Pelotas-RS, Brasil and immediately fell in love with the music. Gilberto and Caetano, two literal legends, are just worth buying this CD. Favorite track has to be Cinema Novo. Buy it, you won't regret it!

By now most of know all about Gil and Veloso - 2 legends, each a great poet and musicians, founders of a movement in art and culture "Tropacalia." This album is somewhat uneven, but I would purchase it on the basis of "Haiti" and Cinema Novo" alone, they are classics.

Tropicalia II . Classic . Produced by legendary Liminha .The first track ("Haiti") , with the percussions of Brown & Musotto , worths the whole album .

This is my first Veloso/Gil album though I have heard many of their songs elsewhere and it is fantastic. Many of the pieces are so creative yet maintain elements of their origin so you see the exploration and stretching but always remaining true to the Brazilian roots. It's great to just listen to and relax to but each piece also arouses curiosity and pleasure through its originality.

This CD arrived four weeks ago and I've been playing it nonstop. Really top-rate Brazilian music.