A BRAZILIAN LOVE AFFAIR

This George Duke's album is one of most often re-released (on CD) his album, and it's not strange at all. Recorded in Rio with Brazilian musicians and released for a first time in 1979, it was one of biggest Duke's commercial success.

Does it means this album from late 70-s is too cheese and polished? Not an easy question. Music, recorded there, is mostly Latin jazz and funky light pop-jazz. So -looking from progressive fusion position, this album is really far from genre's definitions. But - music there is extremely fresh, pleasant and professional.

Almost every composition is small sunny piece of great Latin grooves, funky rhythms and excellent melodies, with some jazzy flavour. Mostly keyboards -led, this album gives enough spaces for other musicians, including such Latin fusion stars as guitarist Milton Nascimento, early RTF singer Flora Purim and percussionist Airto Moreira.

Music even if lightweight is never too cheese or boring, and musicianship is inspired and very enjoyable. And, comparing with Latin fusion Santana's recordings from similar time, this album is more musically professional and has stronger jazz/funk flavour.

In whole - great work for Latin fusion fans. Enjoyable listening if you like melodic light funk jazz. Not a music for jazz-rock lovers for sure.But excellent musicianship for everyone searching just for great music.

The most Brazilian Latin oriented album by Duke, even conventional funk had to retreat from the stage. To my pleasure, not only sounds the album as return to a great shape but also Duke feels revived when he plays keyboards. Maybe a higher inspiration thanks to a cast of Latin musicians. The album flows nicely, there aren't any great melodies; however it is well produced, executed and brings positive vibes. The combination of Latin-inspired Rhodes/electric piano, muscular bass and tight drumming is irresistible. Out of a couple of instrumentals, "Brazilian sugar" with a great trombone solo stands out; in addition, there are other numerous instrumental details in other tracks. "Sugar loaf mountain" even digs into Latin fusion with expressive drumming a la Mezzoforte a couple of years later.

Duke confirms that he was still hell of an instrumentalist at this stage and was able to combine various elements to create a work of high artistic quality.