Album Information Section
Album Title: Olha Que Coisa Mais Linda · Uma Homenagem a Tom Jobim
Artist: Various Artists
Original Release Date: 2001
Label: Som Livre
Genres: Bossa Nova, Brazilian Music
Track Listing:
- 1. Corcovado (3:24)
- 2. A Felicidade (3:19)
- 3. Garota de Ipanema (3:05)
- 4. O Amor Em Paz (4:55)
- 5. Insensatez (4:35)
- 6. Águas De Março (3:28)
- 7. Sem Você (2:50)
- 8. Pot-Pourri: Soneto De Fidelidade Eu Sei Que Vou Te Amar (3:30)
- 9. Desafinado (3:43)
- 10. Wave (1:56)
- 11. Por Toda Minha Vida (1:58)
- 12. Luiza (5:09)
- 13. Por causa de você (2:22)
- 14. Triste (2:25)
- 15. Lígia (3:11)
- 16. Estrada Branca (2:42)
Recording Information
The album “Olha Que Coisa Mais Linda · Uma Homenagem a Tom Jobim” was recorded in Brazil, although specific studio details are often not publicly disclosed for compilation albums. The year of recording aligns with its release in 2001, capturing the essence of Brazilian music in that era.
The production was overseen by various experienced producers in the Brazilian music scene, ensuring that the arrangements remained faithful to the spirit of Tom Jobim’s original compositions. The album features a mix of established Brazilian artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to Jobim’s classics.
Notable recording techniques included the use of traditional acoustic instruments, which are essential to the Bossa Nova style. The engineering was likely characterized by a warm, natural sound, typical of recordings made in the genre’s heyday, allowing the subtle nuances of each performance to shine through.
An interesting production note is that the album was conceived as a tribute to one of Brazil’s most revered composers, Antonio Carlos Jobim, known for his innovative contributions to Bossa Nova. The compilation gathers a diverse array of interpretations, offering listeners a fresh perspective on familiar tunes.
Band Context
This album features various artists rather than a single band, reflecting the collaborative nature of Brazilian music. In the early 2000s, many Brazilian musicians were revisiting classic Bossa Nova material, and this tribute is emblematic of that trend. Artists included in the album had varying degrees of fame at the time, with some being well-established figures and others emerging talents.
The lineup for this compilation showcases a blend of voices and styles, illustrating the rich tapestry of Brazilian music. Many featured artists were influenced by Jobim’s work and had previously recorded their interpretations of his songs, contributing to the album’s authenticity.
Prior to the release of this album, Bossa Nova was experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks to both new artists and the continued appreciation of classic recordings. This project was significant in that it reminded audiences of Jobim’s timeless influence and allowed contemporary musicians to express their artistic admiration.
Track Commentary
The album opens with “Corcovado,” a track that embodies the gentle, melodic style of Jobim’s compositions. This song, like many others featured, showcases the intricate guitar work and soft vocal delivery that characterize Bossa Nova. “A Felicidade,” another standout track, delves into themes of love and loss, inviting listeners to reflect on the bittersweet nature of relationships.
“Garota de Ipanema” is perhaps the most iconic song included in the compilation, renowned worldwide and often considered a quintessential Bossa Nova piece. Its smooth melody and evocative lyrics have made it a lasting favorite among fans of Brazilian music.
Other notable tracks include “Águas De Março,” a song celebrated for its poetic lyrics and complex structure, which reflects the beauty of the Brazilian landscape and the passing of time. “Desafinado,” another classic, explores the theme of love through the lens of musical dissonance, reinforcing the emotional depth found in Jobim’s work.
The album has been well-received both critically and commercially, serving as an excellent introduction to Jobim’s music for new listeners while also appealing to long-time fans. Its legacy lies in its ability to bridge generations of musicians, allowing the timeless beauty of Jobim’s compositions to resonate anew in the hearts of listeners around the world.
