Antonio Carlos Jobim Music

Remember the days when you could turn on the radio and find a few easy listening stations that would play gentle bossa nova music that you could go to sleep to?

This is the kind of music that is.

Yes, this is the kind of music that finds its way into elevators and doctor's offices from time to time. But Jobim's music lends itself to that, because of its relaxing nature and chord structures that construct a nice backdrop for your mind to take a load off.

There is nothing outstanding here. This is an anonymous studio band playing some of Jobim's best known and familiar songs about as straight to the original numbers as possible in a vanilla style, no spice. Some cuts are vocal, some are instrumental. But ALL are smooth and well-orchestrated with synth and real instruments (including real strings!) and perfect for the type of CD this is to be: easy listening, and it's probably one of the best of its type, due to the material.

And while it's obvious this collection wasn't made on a large budget, only the most stalwart of Jobim fans will be offended. (Nothing like the horribly cheap $15 Casio-like arrangements and production given to Bacharach and David's songs by this group, which are an absolute abomination.)

Smooth, smooth, smooth stuff. Spin it or download it to your iPod and take some time away from the mad pace of today's world ... and relax.

Miucha is the one-word name and nickname of a delicate Brazilian songbird in a low key style but pretty fine tuning. Her good taste for repertoire choice is her another quality.

If it is important to you: she is sister to Chico Buarque and was wife to Joao Gilberto.

This was a smash hit album in Brazil and it includes fresh new material like 'Vai Levando', a delicious Bossa Nova with its chorus "a gente vai levando'.

Jobim's presence is a registered mark with his special and well crafted ensemble. He plays the piano and sings along with Miucha.

All sung in Portuguese.

Since first hearing these haunting tunes 26 years ago, each revisit has been a treat. You can't listen to Desafinado or Corcovado and not want to curl up on a couch with someone you love and a glass of good wine. The melodies range from sprightly to melancholy, so you'll always find one to fit your mood. The Getz/Gilbero/Jobim album is no less an all-star than this one, but don't miss this dose of undiluted Jobim magic.

You can't go wrong with jazz pianist tete and trio. Caution-this is same album as Temas Brazilianeros!