Brazilian pianist/composer Antonio Adolfo grew up in a musical family in Rio de Janeiro (his mother was a violinist in the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra), and began his studies at the age of seven. By seventeen he was a professional musician whose teachers include the great Nadia Boulanger in Paris. During the 60's he led his own trio that participated in several Bossa Nova and Jazz shows in Brazil. Adolfo wrote tunes that have been recorded by such artists as Sergio Mendes, Stevie Wonder, Herb Alpert, Earl Klugh, Dionne Warwick, and others. He won International Song Contests (Rio - Brazil and Athens - Greece) on two occasions. As a musician, arranger and record producer he has worked with some of the most representative Brazilian names, besides having released more than 25 albums under his name. As an educator, he has been teaching music, especially Brazilian music, throughout the world and has written several books.
In this new album Antonio pays homage to composer/keyboardist Milton Nascimento, his colleague and friend for over 50 years. ‘His compositions broke traditional harmonic and rhythmic patterns.’
The ensemble is Antonio Adolfo – piano, Jesse Sadoc – trumpet, flugelhorn, Marcelo Martins – alto flute, tenor sax, Danilo Sinno – alto sax, Rafael Speiwak – electric guitar, acoustic guitar, percussion, Lula Galvao – guitar, Leo Amuedo – guitar, Jorge Helder – double bass, Rafael Barata – drums and percussion, and Dada Costa – percussion.
The tracks are Nada Sera Como Antes, Tres Pontas, Caxanga, Cais, Outubro (October), Cancao Do Sal (Salt Song), Fe Cega Faca Amolada, Encontros E Despedidas, and Tristesse.
All the compositions are the work of Milton Nascimento - the finest in new Brazilian jazz offered by a master who’s been there and keeps climbing. Grady Harp, June 20