Reviewed by Eric Saeger
With a pro PR effort breathing new life into its perceived relevance, Brazilian jazz guitarist Lucena’s late-2010 live collection (mainly comprised of Latin classics such as ‘Corcovado’) will reach many more ears, and deservedly so. This is further proof, not that any was needed, that Latin guys just cold own chill-guitar. Sublime almost to a fault, Lucena cooperates with pianist Gerald Gregory all through the set, never relying on dissonance for reality-checks (acoustic bass player Kevin Hamilton is the designated diversion, thrumming out technically profound and melodically explorative runs accompanied only by the barely-there brushes of drummer Quentin Baxter). The interpretations are quiet and romantic, speaking more to unique, oaken world tastes than ones geared to chill-combo, though both areas get plenty-enough pampering in this endlessly pleasurable record.
Grade: A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7GFPUDpE8M
