Romero Lubambo & Pamela Driggs - Christmastime in Rio (2024) [Hi-Res]

World-renowned Brazilian guitarist Romero Lubambo and acclaimed vocalist Pamela Driggs are back with a fresh and cozy holiday release, Christmastime in Rio, set to warm hearts and brighten playlists this holiday season. Infused with the rhythms of bossa nova, samba, and Brazilian waltz, this album is an intimate celebration of love, family, and the magic of the season.

Drawing inspiration from the timeless Christmas songs of icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Mel Tormé, Lubambo and Driggs reimagine these classics with the gentle sway of Brazilian rhythms. Their interpretation invites listeners into a world where warm acoustic arrangements, lush vocals, and the spirit of celebration blend seamlessly.

“We set out to create an album that radiates the warmth and gratitude we feel for our loved ones,” the duo shares. “This project is inspired by the classic holiday recordings we grew up with, but we wanted to give them a fresh, Brazilian twist. The result is a collection of cozy and relaxing tunes that we hope bring joy to people for many holiday seasons to come.”

Recorded with some of the world’s finest Brazilian and jazz musicians, Christmastime in Rio is a true family affair. Special guest appearances, including a feature from their daughter Luisa Lubambo, add to the warmth of the project. With contributions from musical heavyweights such as Peter Martin on piano, Victor Gonçalves on accordion, and Joe Locke on vibraphone, the album is rich with acoustic textures and heartfelt performances.

The album includes beloved classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Silent Night,” and “The Christmas Song,” as well as original compositions like “Winter Reverie” and “Holiday of Love.” Each track is imbued with Lubambo’s signature guitar mastery and Driggs' soulful voice, resulting in a sound that is as festive as it is timeless.

Romero Lubambo - guitar & percussion
Pamela Driggs - vocals & background vocals
Luisa Lubambo - vocal (5), background vocals & background vocal arrangements
Peter Martin - piano (2, 4, 11)
Vitor Gonçalves - accordion (1, 3, 9, 12)
Joe Locke - vibraphone (6, 7)
Itaiguara Brandão - bass (1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12)
Rafael Barata - drums (3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12)