VARIOUS ARTISTS
Black Rio: Brazil Soul Power 1971 - 1980 (Strut)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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With North America busy sweating under disco lights, the Brazilian underground scene was berthing a funk and samba baby that wasn't quite as cheesy. Evolving from the late sixties classic Soul Brasileiro, Black Rio borrowed from American soul, while incorporating jamming jazz grooves that allowed any musician to sit in. Besides being a breezy, feel good dance music, it was also a strong black power statement in a time of repressive dictatorial rule, which exploded into a DJ party scene. Compiled by DJ Cliffy, this set features stellar highlights from Jorge Ben, Gerson King Combo and Eklipse Soul. There's also a bizarre jazz guitar and sax take on "Rapper's Delight" with an intro swiped from "Shaft." You can't have everything. PS: Nice nostalgic touch is the Dr.J ABA era 'fros in the liner note pics. That was a time.

© 2002 - John Sekerka