Hermeto Pascoa is no stranger to the world of production and is widely known for the album Slaves Mass (1977), in particular my favourite track from the album, Little Cry For Him (Chorinho Para Ele). His close association with other artist include Airto Moreira and Flora Purim. It is said this album was recorded in only two days with his 'go-to team' following a show at Teatro Bandeirantes. He realized the group had a spiritual connection. 

Pascoa was once described by Miles Davis as “the most impressive musician in the world”

The serenity of Dança do Pajé is exemplified by the exquisite flute skills of Hermeto Pascoal. I'm not sure how you can lose great tacks such as this one. However, I am glad it has been found. The production quality is overwhelming leaving you with a spiritual sensation. Aleuda Chaves can be clearly heard serenading the flute with indigenous percussions.  A wall of sound has been created and I am climbing all over this.

Mavumvavumpefoco is a thought provoking song that could have quite easily been mistaken for a score to a Clint Eastwood thriller movie. The interesting use of chords and low octaves with the added natural vocal effects is a brave move. The result pays-off. As the song goes into full effect the phrasing of the instrument and vocals are well placed like an exciting conversation. There are no lyrics, however, constant changes in tempo and rhythm will massage your imagination as you create your mini movie.  This is what Brazil is best at. Turning music into art.

Natal (Tema Das Flutas) translates as 'theme of fruits’. And boy is this tune sweet! This is the epitome of peace and tranquillity as the musician perform an experimental piece. The performance is short, compelling and articulate. What a great find. 

I absolutely adore Casinha Pequenina. The ethereal intro, as all instruments take their place then Assumpção plays a funky bass-riff serenaded by Senise and Mascarenhas blowing some soulful saxaphones. Expressed with all that is jazz fusion. When I next see my jazz junkies, I will be tempted to keep the title of this track a secret. But deep in my heart it was meant to be found and shared with the world.

Mindblowing! 

Credits:

Hermeto Pascoal : Electric Piano, Flute, Voice

Lelo Nazario: Electric Piano

Nivaldo Ornelas: Tenor Sax, Flute

Mauro Senise: Saxophones, Flute

Raul Mascarenhas : Saxophones, Flute

Toninho Horta: Guitar

Zeca Assumpção: Bass

Zé Eduardo Nazario: Drums, Percussion, Voice, Bamboo Harmonic Flute solo on "Natal"

Aleuda Chaves : Vocals

Label: Far Out Recordings