Maucha Adnet - The Jobim Songbook (2006)

The lack of liner notes doesn't give much clue as to how long Maucha Adnet has been active professionally as a vocalist, though a quote from Antonio Carlos Jobim indicates that she toured with the late, legendary composer. Her deep, soulful voice is very appealing, similar to that of Leny Andrade. Accompanied by a mix of Brazilian and American musicians, including pianist Helio Alves, flugelhornists Claudio Roditi and Michael Brecker, trombonist Jay Ashby, guitarists Mario Adnet and Romero Lubambo, bassist Nilson Matta and drummer Duduka Da Fonsaca, she is obviously very familiar with a wide range of Jobim's compositions, covering both internationally known hits and pieces that have received less exposure outside of Brazil. The focus is on the singer, with occasional piano or guitar solos, with the brass and reed instruments providing background colors. She scats in unison with an unidentified male singer during the introduction to "Chega De Saudade" before swinging its joyous lyrics, with Alves switching to electric piano. She brings more depth to "Aquas de Marco" (The Waters of March)" than most singers, while Adnet's understated interpretation of "Outra Vez" is also welcome. ~ Ken Dryden

Personnel: Vocals, Producer – Maucha Adnet; Saxophone – Joe Lovano; Trombone – Jay Ashby; Acoustic Bass – Nilson Matta; Acoustic Guitar – Romero Lubambo; Acoustic Guitar, Arranged By – Mario Adnet; Drums – Duduka Da Fonseca; Flugelhorn – Claudio Roditi, Randy Brecker; Piano – Alfredo Cardim, Helio Alves