In episode #79, we discussed one of the best instrumental albums ever recorded. It is the Quarteto Novo's first and only album, released in 1967 via Odeon in Brazil. This album was fundamental in bringing Northeast folklore music to a national audience, sparsely blended with bebop jazz, bossa, folk, with cinematic arrangements and great musicianship.

The quartet of percussionist Airto Moreira, guitarist Heraldo do Monte, bassist Theo de Barros and flutist/pianist Hermeto Pascoal deviated from conventional time signatures and created a very innovative sound not only in Brazil, but for the whole world. Quarteto Novo recently had its first vinyl reissue in 25 years by French new record label Jazzybelle. Follow our playlist on Spotify: Brazuca Sounds Podcast Soundtrack.

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Every episode is a different song. This is the song today:

"Emoriô" and "Naturalemente" by Fafá de Belém

Today we're celebrating the first compacto (single) released in 1975 by singer Fafá de Belém. "Emoriô" was written by João Donato with lyrics by Gilberto Gil, and its Afro-Brazilian arrangements, heavy percussion, and repetitive chorus elevated 19-year-old Fafá into a Brazilian star.

The B-side, "Naturalmente", written by Donato with lyrics by Caetano Veloso, is no less impressive, with its carimbó rhythm, and putting a spotlight for the first time on the North sounds of Brazil, especially the state of Pará, where the singer was from. Caetano's lyrics are "a veritable linguistic playground", almost a catalog of Amazonian terminology, and I recommend checking out the full translation with our friends at Translationsmith.

Salve! This is a preview to our bonus episode for ⁠paid subscribers⁠!

Every episode is a different song. This is the song today:

"Jorge da Capadócia" by Jorge Ben

April 23rd is a state holiday in Rio de Janeiro, celebrated in honor of Saint George's Day. Among his many devotees is Jorge Ben, who paid tribute to the saint in several songs, sometimes blended with Afro-Brazilian spirituality, through Saint George's syncretic counterpart, Ogum. One of his most iconic songs is "Jorge da Capadócia", released in 1975 on the album Solta o Pavão, featuring direct lines from a traditional prayer to Saint George, invoking protection against enemies. Find the full translation with our friends at Translationsmith. Over the years, the song has become a staple of Brazilian music, covered by influential artists like Caetano Veloso, pop singer Fernanda Abreu, and hip-hop legends Racionais MCs.