Mario Castro and Samba S.A.

Description

The self-titled album by Brazilian composer, pianist, and producer Mário Castro Neves and his group Samba S. A. from 1967 is overflowing with class. It possesses that archetype of the bossa nova, jazz, and samba sound of the 60s. We would place it up there with Sergio Mendes at his best, Tambo Trio, or Milton Banana. It's a light ballad that sometimes touches on easy listening, but holds its own with a cool bravado. The voices of Biba and Thaís Do Amaral are present, with a relaxed performance that complements the tracks with the sublime beauty of vocal groups such as Quarteto Em Cy, with whom Biba has also sung, as well as with Antonio Adolfo's A Brazuca. The extraordinary bassist Novelli, who has worked with Milton Nascimento, Nelson Angelo, and Joyce, Airto, and many greats of Brazilian music of the time, also appears on the record.
Although released on the major label RCA Victor, original copies are elusive and sought after with a price to match. For this reissue, we opted for the Mono master, in the style of the original Brazilian pressing from 1967. Instantly familiar, the album exudes a welcoming sense of nostalgia and remains something that accompanies you from the very first listen.