Andrew Finn Magill - Festa! (2021)

Andrew Finn Magill’s outstanding new album “Festa!” arrives as something of a miracle: an album that stands proudly among the very best of a traditional style of music with its roots in 19th-century Rio De Janeiro, created by a North Carolina-based violinist. Hearing this wonderful and soulful album is like being transported to a bar in Rio’s bohemian Lapa neighborhood in the 1940s. The songwriting, arrangements and execution of the material do the genre’s legendary figures proud and is all the more impressive for being all original, from Magill’s own pen.

Without indulging in forced or contrived fusions or experiments, it still manages to add a fresh, contemporary take on a time-honored sound, and one can only imagine the legendary Pixinguinha, frequently described as Brazil’s Louis Armstrong, nodding in approval. One feels the particular carefree lightness of touch coupled with exacting precision that is the hallmark of the best choro, and which explains the attraction of the form to many jazz musicians around the world.

Magill’s achievement here has not gone unnoticed, with acclaimed Rio producer/musician Kassin saying of this album: “Andrew Finn Magill’s new record is like comfort food for ears. Listening to his music is guaranteed instant happiness.” Kassin adds that “Nando Duarte’s production provides an elegant dressing for Magill’s mel odies.” Such high praise is a testament to the chemistry and communication achieved by Magill and producer Duarte, and of the almost telepathic communication among the musicians.
– Greg Caz, renowned Brazilian music DJ (Brooklyn, NY)

He (Magill) is a genuine, and excellent, chameleon! Accompanied by a first-rate team of sharp Brazilians, Andrew is not intimidated, he makes the sounds of his violin stir, stretching the hips of one note to lean against others.
– Badi Assad, legendary Brazilian guitarist

Andrew Finn Magill and Nando Duarte have created some sunshine for our ears and minds with this beautifully played, arranged, and produced album. Their perfect combination of effortless virtuosity and musical simpatico is sure to put a smile on your face.
– Zach Brock, Grammy-winning violinist with Snarky Puppy