Album Information Section

Album Title: Angelus

Artist: Milton Nascimento

Original Release Date: 1993

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), Jazz, World Music

Track Listing:

• 1. Seis horas da tarde (4:13)
• 2. Estrelada (5:01)
• 3. De um modo geral… (5:37)
• 4. Angelus (2:35)
• 5. Coisas de Minas (5:27)
• 6. Hello Goodbye (4:30)
• 7. Sofro calado (1:11)
• 8. Clube da Esquina №2 (5:51)
• 9. Meu veneno (3:45)
• 10. Only a Dream in Rio (6:30)
• 11. Qualquer coisa a haver com o paraíso (6:59)
• 12. Vera Cruz (6:34)
• 13. Novena (5:03)
• 14. Amor amigo (4:19)
• 15. Sofro calado (2:25)

Recording Information

The album “Angelus” was recorded at the iconic Studio 5 located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The recording sessions took place during 1992, a time when Milton Nascimento was deeply immersed in his craft, blending traditional Brazilian music with jazz influences.

Produced by Milton Nascimento and Nelson Motta, the album showcases a rich tapestry of sound achieved through innovative recording techniques and the use of both analog and digital equipment. The engineering was overseen by Paulo Malaguti, who was known for his expertise in capturing Nascimento’s unique vocal resonance.

Notably, “Angelus” features a lush orchestration that complements Nascimento’s emotive vocals, utilizing string arrangements that were meticulously crafted to enhance the overall auditory experience. During production, Nascimento aimed to evoke a sense of spirituality and introspection, which is evident in both the lyrical content and the musical compositions.

Band Context

At the time of “Angelus,” Milton Nascimento was already a celebrated figure in the Brazilian music scene, having gained international acclaim through his work in the 1970s and 1980s. His artistry was characterized by a fusion of Brazilian folk music with jazz and other global influences, establishing him as a pioneer of the MPB genre. The early 1990s marked a period of exploration for Nascimento as he sought to expand his musical horizons while remaining true to his roots.

During the recording of this album, Nascimento was accompanied by a talented ensemble of musicians, including Jorge Ben Jor, Toninho Horta, and Robertinho Silva, all of whom contributed to the album’s rich sound landscape. Prior to “Angelus,” Nascimento had released several albums that solidified his reputation, but this particular project represented a shift towards a more introspective and spiritual direction in his songwriting.

Significant events leading up to this album included a series of successful international tours, which helped to increase his visibility in the United States and Europe. This global reach allowed Nascimento to draw from various musical influences, which he infused into “Angelus,” further enhancing the album’s diverse sound palette.

Track Commentary

“Angelus” opens with the track “Seis horas da tarde,” setting a contemplative tone that resonates throughout the album. This track, with its intricate melodies and reflective lyrics, serves as an introduction to the themes of time and introspection that permeate the album. “Estrelada” follows suit, showcasing Nascimento’s ability to blend jazz harmonies with Brazilian rhythms.

The title track, “Angelus,” is a brief but poignant piece, encapsulating the spiritual essence that Nascimento sought to convey. Other standout tracks include “Clube da Esquina №2,” which is a nod to his earlier work and showcases a collaborative spirit with fellow musicians, and “Qualquer coisa a haver com o paraíso,” which features lush arrangements that elevate the song’s romantic sentiments.

Critical reception of “Angelus” has been largely positive, with many praising Nascimento’s vocal performance and the album’s production quality. The tracks “Hello Goodbye” and “Only a Dream in Rio” have been highlighted as singles that exemplify Nascimento’s unique ability to weave storytelling into his music, resonating with audiences both in Brazil and abroad.

Overall, “Angelus” stands as a testament to Milton Nascimento’s artistry and his continuous evolution as a musician, leaving a lasting impact within the realms of MPB and jazz.