Jackson Conti - Sunjinho

A new twist on Brazilian classics

Madlib has always been one of the great enigmatic figures of hip-hop; a multi-instrumentalist, producer, DJ and rapper who has released a plethora of music under a multitude of pseudonyms with varying, often highly eccentric and sometimes outstanding results.

This effort, a collaborative, largely instrumental affair recorded in Brazil with Azymuth’s drummer Ivan “Mamao” Conti, is essentially a love letter to the art of Brazilian percussion, reworking standards by such luminaries as Luiz Eca, João Donato and Marcos Valle into bright, percussive soundscapes that accentuate the importance of rhythm to Brazilian music. It’s among the best of his instrumental work, similar to last year’s Yesterday’s Universe collection of jazz reworks (two of which are rather cheekily included on here). Highlights include the playful, vibes-heavy Xibaba and the soulful take on George Duke’s Brazilian Sugar. Best of all is Azymuth’s Segura Esta Onda, featuring Mamao on vocals, opening with the trademark breezy Brazilian sound before Madlib shreds the song apart, interpolating everything from fusion to P-Funk, before re-emerging into a finale strong on rhythm and melody: the quintessential Brazilian sound.

Collaborations often bring the best out of Madlib. Here the mix of Brazilian sunshine and a legendary drummer have helped inspire something shimmering with tropical light.

KS | 024 CD

Reviewed by Paul Bowler
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