Finas Misturas, by Sandy Shore (Monterey, CA)

This exquisitely brilliant project from Brazilian master composer/pianist/educator Antonio Adolfo, recorded in Rio de Janeiro in December of 2012 with five "super talented" musicians joining him, is nothing short of entrancing! As his theme, Mr. Adolfo has selected six songs from his "Jazz Masters," including works by John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, and Bill Evans, and added four extraordinary Adolfo originals, each of which easily measures up to the standard he's established for FINAS MISTURAS (FINE MIXTURES). The result - musical ecstasy to my ears... iconic jazz compositions such as "Giant Steps" and "Con Alma" combined with Brazilian elements ranging from Toada to Bossa Nova. It's absolutely the best of two of my favorite musical worlds... classic jazz plus the rhythms and phrasings of Brazil. If ever there was a must-have for your jazz library, Antonio Adolfo's FINAS MISTURAS (FINE MIXTURES) is it... no question about it! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN