Manfredo Fest Just Jobim [CD-524]

Just Jobim is the album Manfredo Fest has always wanted to record. Throughout a career that spans close to four decades, the universally revered repertoire of Antonio Carlos Brasileiro de Almeida Jobim has been an indispensable part of Manfredo's identity as one of Brazil's leading jazz pianists. From his association in the late 1960's with the Sergio Mendes-produced group Bossa Rio to his recent string of vibrant bossa nova accented jazz albums (including three for dmp), Manfredo has been widely regarded as one of the late composer's most faithful and flattering interpreters. "He went beyond Brazilian", says the pianist of the legendary boss nova composer who passed away in 1994. "He had a unique way of keeping a Brazilian soul in his music while using a universal language that anyone can relate to." With the savvy support of percussionist Cyro Baptista, bassist David Finck and drummer Steve Davis, all experienced bossa hands, Manfredo crafts an album that's much more than just another Jobim tribute. It's effervescent spirit and deep empathy for the composer's essence make Just Jobim as extraordinary and unforgettable as the music it celebrates. Mark Holston - JAZZIZ