Astronauta: Songs of Elis

Amazon.com
With only two exceptions, all the songs on this album are Brazilian classics made famous in the '60s and '70s by the brilliantly mercurial singer Elis Regina, who died tragically in 1982 at age 37. The well-known Brazilian singer-guitarist-composer known simply as Joyce, one of Regina's best songwriting friends, reintroduces Elis's repertoire with the eminently tasteful assistance of American jazz saxophonist Joe Lovano and pianist Mulgrew Miller. Concentrating on the subtleties of Brazilian harmony rather than percussion, Astronauta is a sophisticated uptown take on classic material ranging from samba primitivist Ary Barroso's "Aquarelo do Brasil" (made famous by Carmen Miranda) to a rare English-language version of Antonio Carlos Jobim's exquisite "Waters of March." By emphasizing the music's strength, clarity, and intelligence, Joyce paints a telling, tearless portrait of Elis Regina. --Richard Gehr

Tracks:

Samba Pra Elis
Canto De Ossanha
Upa Neguinho
Morro Velho
Aquarela Do Brasil
O Cantador
Astronauta (Samba Da Pergunta)
Oriente
Folhas Secas
Querelas Do Brasil
Menino Das Laranjas
Essa Mulher
Na Batucada Da Vida
Waters Of March

Amazon.com

With only two exceptions, all the songs on this album are Brazilian classics made famous in the '60s and '70s by the brilliantly mercurial singer Elis Regina, who died tragically in 1982 at age 37. The well-known Brazilian singer-guitarist-composer known simply as Joyce, one of Regina's best songwriting friends, reintroduces Elis's repertoire with the eminently tasteful assistance of American jazz saxophonist Joe Lovano and pianist Mulgrew Miller. Concentrating on the subtleties of Brazilian harmony rather than percussion, Astronauta is a sophisticated uptown take on classic material ranging from samba primitivist Ary Barroso's "Aquarelo do Brasil" (made famous by Carmen Miranda) to a rare English-language version of Antonio Carlos Jobim's exquisite "Waters of March." By emphasizing the music's strength, clarity, and intelligence, Joyce paints a telling, tearless portrait of Elis Regina. --Richard Gehr

Customer Reviews:

A lot of Bossa not Enough Nova.......2005-09-06

I was pleased with the selection of songs, but Joyce just didn't totally move me back to my time in Rio.

A Progression for those that enjoyed 'Bebel's - Tanto Tempo'.......2004-03-22

For somebody whose been making albums since the late 60's in her homeland `Brazil', its surprising that `Joyce' hasn't had more of a marketing push over here. Arguably the closest comparison her music can be compared to would be the dreamy Bossa Nova of `Bebel Gilberto'. Whereby Bebel has studiously carved out a name for herself over her (with a relatively modest following back home), for Joyce it's the other way around, with Joyce being a significantly bigger name back home, but with a small fanbase over here. There an element to Joyce's music that feels slightly more authentic than Bebels...(and thus possibly slightly less accessible, which would explain the bigger following in her home country), but they both sing in emotional luxurious Portuguese, that brims with emotional & seductive overtones, but Bebel's music slightly more instrument focused, and Joyce relying on simpler instrument arrangements (via various experienced jazz musicians) & experience of vocal dexterity to see her through. Unquestionably recommended to those that have worn out their `Bebel Gilberto - Tanto Tempo' albums, and ready for the next logical step.

Enchanting.......2002-04-22

I have seen Joyce live and heard her mention this CD. She was of course very good friends with Elis Regina. A number of the tracks on this disc have some very interesting arrangements which at first forced me to step back but then on the second listen made me appreciate her artistry. This album is sensual and captures so much of Joyce's essence as well. I loaned this to a friend at work and it has been two weeks since I haven't listened to it. I had better get it back before I have to rush off and buy another.

Spirit of Brasil........2001-05-28

After seeing Joyce in a live performance in Cleveland Heights in May 2001, I was compelled to study this Brasilian virtuoso in more detail. What a better way to start than by listening to Joyce's interpretations of classic songs forever identified with the the first woman of Brasilian Bossa, Elis Regina, WOW! (or UAU! in portuguese . . .) Every performance in in the spirit of Brasilian bossa nove/samba - nothing of a parody or syrupy sentiments, but, as in a Brasil life, a celebration! Joyce is a consumate artist, redefing the popular musical form without trivilizing the past. The performances on this recording are exciting and the arrangements fresh. This has made it to my "must have" list of musical performances in this genre.

Beautiful.......2000-11-01

I have heard a track from this CD on KPFK and I am happy to order it now. What I heard on the radio left me dazzled! I couldn't leave the car once I had parked. I had to listen to her sing.

Average customer rating:

Powerful

Astronauta: Songs of Elis
Joyce
Manufacturer: Lightyear
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Brazil | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

Samba | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music

General | Latin Music | Styles | Music

Bossa Nova | Latin Music | Styles | Music

Brazilian Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B0000645IK
Release Date: 2002-04-23

Tracks:

Samba Pra Elis
Canto De Ossanha
Upa Neguinho
Morro Velho
Aquarela Do Brasil
O Cantador
Astronauta (Samba Da Pergunta)
Oriente
Folhas Secas
Querelas Do Brasil
Menino Das Laranjas
Essa Mulher
Na Batucada Da Vida
Waters Of March (Aguas De Marco)

Album Description

Joyce lends her sunny, jazz-savvy voice and bossa-esq guitarwork to a program of beloved Brazilian classics recorded in the 60's and 70's by the late Elis Regina.

Customer Reviews:

Powerful.......2004-07-14

This CD is a must for any person that appreciates Bossa Nova
music. Truly wonderful!