Ana Caram – Rio After Dark (1989) [Reissue 2002] [SACD / Chesky Records – SACD241]

Title: Ana Caram – Rio After Dark (1989) [Reissue 2002]
Genre: Jazz
Format: MCH SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

Ana Caram, a São Paulo-born composer, vocalist, and guitarist, is known for her delicate, vibrato-less soprano and versatile delivery, excelling in both melodic ballads and lively sambas. Her debut U.S. album, Rio After Dark (1989, Chesky Records), evokes the timeless sound of 1962 bossa nova, as if untouched since “Desafinado.” A protégé of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Caram skillfully applies bossa nova styling to contemporary songs like Djavan’s works and Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” Her slightly off-pitch vocals, typical of seductive Brazilian singers, add charm, complemented by her João Gilberto-inspired guitar rhythms. Caram contributes original tracks like “Renovação” and “Rainbow,” rooted in classic bossa nova. Jobim guests on piano and vocals for “Meditation” and “Anos Dourados,” with his groans captured in Chesky’s meticulous recording. Paquito D’Rivera’s clarinet shines on “O Que Vier Eu Traço,” and his alto sax, echoing Stan Getz, elevates “La Cumbia.” Steve Sacks’ alto flute and subtle percussion by Carlos Alberto de Oliveira and Café enhance the album’s spare, low-key texture. The SACD’s high-fidelity production appeals to purist bossa nova fans, offering a pristine listening experience. Rio After Dark showcases Caram’s artistry, blending tradition with fresh interpretations, making it a standout in the genre.

hraudio | allmusic | discogs

Tracklist:

01. Rio After Dark
02. Alagoas
03. Meditation
04. Viola Fora De Moda
05. Summer Days
06. La Cumbia
07. Anos Dourados
08. Renovacao
09. Rainbow
10. O Que Vier Eu Traco
11. Sem Lengenda
12. Forever
13. O Tempo E O Lugar
14. Serrado
15. You’ve Got A Friend

Personnel:

Ana Caram – Vocals & Guitar
Paquito D’Rivera – Saxophone & Clarinet
David Chesky – Piano
David Finck – Bass
Cafe De Silva – Percussion
Carlos Alberto De Oliveira – Percussion

Note:

Produced by David Chesky. Engineered by Bob Katz.
Recorded on April 6,7 & 18, 1989 at RCA Studio A in New York.

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