GAFEIRA RIO MIAMI, Beleza Pura

A little fun fact history lesson is in order as listeners revel to the both sensually romantic and pulsating, faster grooving, horn drenched fire of Gafeira Rio Miami, a popular 11-piece South Florida powerhouse ensemble ensemble whose third album Beleza Pura pulsates with the intoxicating energy of classic and contemporary samba. Gafeira is a Brazilian-Portuguese word for honky tonk, which were sanctuaries for free expression – and the term has come to embody a passionate subgenre of samba that evolved from the 40’s to the 60’s.

From the opening romp “To Voltando,” a snazzy showcase for vocalist Isa Duarte’s rapid fire vocals, through the speedy rolling, wildly danceable “A Volta da Gafiera” – a colorful showcase for guest singer Eggy – the album taps delightfully into the vibrant dance hall tradition, reimagining that exuberant style for a contemporary international audience. Led by Brazilian bassist Diogo Brown, the group draws musical love, light and hope from the rhythmic sophistication of traditional samba, the sassy swing of classic big band jazz and the cosmopolitan excitement of Miami’s multi-cultural music scene. Every moment on this exotic but rhythmically grounded ten track adventure seems to celebrate the joyful atmosphere of those legendary gafeira ballrooms.

A sexy, whimsically charming tune about finding the perfect dance partner for that setting, “Dama Ideal,” a traditional genre tune, keeps the dance flowing while underscoring the ensemble’s commitment to keeping these traditions grooving into modern times. Throughout the album, Brown’s band eases fluidly between classic Brazilian repertoire and fresh and spicy modern arrangements. Caetano Veloso’s “Você Não Entende Nada” is spruced up with delectable flair featuring guest vocalist Roberta Sá, while “Pé do Meu Samba” pays passionate homage to the roots of samba and is practically an anthem for the city of Rio.

The snazzy instrumental “Um a Zero,” a colorful homage to Brazil’s victory over the Uruguayan national team in the 1919 South American Championship (football), springs to life, driven by the dynamic guitar work of world renowned guitarist Yamandu Costa. Legendary special guests Antonio Adolfo (piano) and Nestor Torres (flute) illuminate “So Danco Samba,” fronting an arrangement that highlights Gafeira Rio Miami’s surreal ability to transform familiar Brazilian standards into loving, legacy continuing expressions.