Chora Baiao, by JazzTimes (Review)

ANTONIO ADOLFO
CHORA BAIAO (AAM)
Brazilian pianist-composer Antonio Adolfo puts a refined, jazz-infused spin on a collection of lively choros and baiaos by the highly respected but under-recognized Brazilian composers Chico Buarque and Guinga. Joined on the frontline by the fantastic guitarist Leo Amuedo and ably supported by the simmering rhythm section of bassist Jorge Helder, drummer Rafael Barata and percussionist Marcos Suzano, Adolfo reveals the influence of Bill Evans and Herbie Hancock in the context of this rich Brazilian fare. Amuedo exhibits a Toninho Horta/Pat Metheny influence on such tunes as Guinga's "No Na Garganta'' and his exhilarating choro
"Di Menor;' as well as Adolfo's title track and his swinging "Chicote:' Adolfo's daughter Carol Saboya sings Portuguese lyrics on the tender "Voce, Voce; then delivers ethereal wordless vocals on Buarque's ''A Ostra E 0 Vento:' The leader also turns in a moving solo piano performance on his melancholy "Chorosa Blues:' Bill Milkowski