Paulinho da Viola (1968)

This is the Cd reissue of the Lp originally released in 1978, and previously reissued in Cd in the 2 em 1 series. Now re-masterized in the Abbey Road studios, this album brings the successes "Sentimento perdido," "Coração leviano," "Miudinho" (with guest artist Monarco, from the Velha Guarda da Portela) and "Sofrer," and the beautiful Silas de Oliveira/Mano Décio samba "Apoteose do samba." The choro "Sarau para Radamés" became a classic in the genre. The album includes photos of Paulinho at his hobby: luthiery, or musical instrument construction. Together with his declaration of principles, it allows for an integral comprehension of his work: some people understand the instrument when it was still wood. Or even before, when it was a tree, with its roots deeply buried in the humid soil, the same soil tramped by the kid (which still lives inside him). ~ Alvaro Neder|

This album, originally from 1971, was reissued in CD format in 1996 with the original cover and was digitally remastered at the Abbey Road studios in London. While Brazil was still dominated by the frenetic sounds and images of the declining Tropicalia, it is surprising that this subtle release could met such success. The vigorous anti-commercialism branded in his previous album, centered in his somewhat melancholic and discrete personality, was even enhanced in this one, which was his fourth solo release. "Dona Santina e Seu Antenor" is a humorous chronicle of the life in the hills. "Para Um Amor No Recife" is a delicate bossa that was re-recorded by Fafa de Belem, Ze Ramalho, and Marina Lima. The re-recording of forgotten classics by important sambistas like Monarco, Francisco Santana, Elton Medeiros, Otavio de Moraes, Raul Sampaio, Benil Santos, Valzinho, Orestes Barbosa, Mauro Duarte, Walter Nunes, and others evidence his generosity in sharing his opportunities with his brothers. "Depois da Vida" (Nelson Cavaquinho/Guilherme de Brito/Paulo Gesta) aroused considerable polemics with its morbidity. ~ Alvaro Neder