John Pizzarelli Bossa Nova CD

Singer/guitarist John Pizzarelli demonstrates his great love of Brazilian music--and, in particular, of bossa nova king Joao Gilberto--on this intimate, enjoyable recording. Though usually a purveyor of American jazz standards in the vocal swing tradition of Frank Sinatra, Pizzarelli proves himself equally adept at the subtle, rhythmically intricate guitar work and understated singing of Brazil's signature genre. Moreover, Pizzarelli makes the sound more accessible for stateside audiences via intriguing instrumentation (strings and flutes), and an off-the-cuff showmanship that reveals his American vocal jazz roots.

BOSSA NOVA is also notable for its selection of compositions. Bossa nova standards dominate, particularly those of songwriting giant Antonio Carlos Jobim. Well-worn chestnuts like "Desafinado" and "Girl from Ipanema" (with Jobim's grandson Daniel Jobim providing Portuguese vocals here) are given warm, accomplished treatments. But there are also takes on Gershwin's "Fascinating Rhythm," James Taylor's "Your Smiling Face," and Broadway maven Stephen Sondheim's "I Remember;" with each successfully adapted to the easy, rhythmic swing of the bossa nova style. Light, accessible, and precise, this Pizzarelli release should please fans of 1960s Latin pop, and win some new converts as well.

Recorded at Avatar, Secret Studios, New York, New York in 2003. Includes liner notes by John Pizzarelli.

Personnel: John Pizzarelli (vocals, guitar); Daniel Jobim (vocals, background vocals); Deborah Assael-Migliore, Joyce Hammann, Conway Kuo (strings); David Tofani, Rie Schmidt, Pamela Sklar, Keith Underwood (flute); Harry Allen (tenor saxophone); César Camargo Mariano (piano); Paulinho Braga (drums); Jim Saporito (percussion); Chiara Civello (background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Robert Friedrich.

Liner Note Author: John Pizzarelli.

Recording information: Avatar Studio C, New York, NY (05/05/2003-05/09/2003).

Arranger: Don Sebesky.

Personnel: John Pizzarelli (vocals, guitar); Daniel Jobim (vocals); Harry Allen (tenor saxophone); Ray Kennedy, Cesar Carmargo Mariano (piano); Martin Pizzarelli (bass); Paulinho Braga (drums); Jim Saporito (percussion).