Arnaldo Antunes, Carlinhos Brown & Marisa Monte - Tribalistas

With this dreamy collection of soothing lullabies and playful ballads, the supergroup formed by singer/producer Marisa Monte, percussionist Carlinhos Brown, and former Titas member Arnaldo Antunes has proved once and for all that Brazilian music has moved forward beyond the shadows of the seminal tropicalia movement. Favoring a subtle, understated compositional environment, the members of the trio clearly relish each other's company. Their voices come together harmoniously, with a handful of guest musicians adding minimal touches of piano and guitar. From the anthemic declaration of purpose "Carnavalia" to the uplifting charm of the bouncy "Passe Em Casa" and the peaceful aura that permeate the Christmas song "Mary Cristo," the moods here offer an antidote to the unapologetic aggressiveness of most contemporary music. "Tribalistas" is more than just the best Brazilian album of the year. It is also an instant classic, a musical message of hope and a joy to listen to from beginning to end. --Ernesto Lechner