14 BIS

One of the most sublime musical experiences I've ever had in my life.

But what a shame. I actually feel embarrassed for not giving a chance to the 14 Bis before. It certainly was not for lack of knowledge: in addition to being one of the most renowned rock bands in Brazil has always been a favorite of my dad, so it's not as if I had never heard of them. Still, what was my surprise when I saw them here on the site.

First of all let me tell you a little bit of rock coming from the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. In my humble opinion this is the state that produces the best crop of rock my country, countless classic bands that have their mark on the music scene here for years and years. Specifically the 70s and 80s were extremely productive for the Brazilian rock, serving as the pinnacle of the genre in the country. Other states that have renowned bands are The Federal District (Brasilia), Rio Grande do Sul and São Paulo. However Minas seems the most "progressive", since there has always been enough use of regional elements (Brazilian Popular Music) fused with rock rural and foreign influences.

And even though I never really connected with the rock to come from my hometown (since prog was never really explored here), I am surprised at how much I fell in love with 14 Bis. Sure, it's not just progressive rock that is running here: there is a range of influences that give this album a legitimate Brazilian flavor, combined with the best of the greats of rock Sixties / Seventies. The most obvious influence here are the Beatles, not only because of the wonderful opening track Perdido em Abbey Road, but also because the songs are not very long (all around 2-4 minutes), but have a very diverse structure with use of symphonic, progressive and regional elements, in no time sounding preachy or "tight".

The aforementioned Perdido em Abbey Road opens the album, a great welcome note and a personal favorite of mine with lyrics doing homage to the boys of Liverpool, an intense use of electric guitar (an instrument abhorred by Brazilian musicians at the time, as pointed out by the my colleague CCVP) coupled with symphonic feeling provided by the trumpets. Here is the most beautiful song of the disc: Canção da América. Originally composed by reputed artist Milton Nascimento (whose project "Clube da Esquina" could very well be included here on the site - just a suggestion, ok?), The song deals with the friendship of a poetic and beautiful, being entirely acoustic and accompanied by the organ while members make delicious vocal harmonies. Incidentally, this is one of the great strengths of the album, and I really tear praise for the band to make use of these as beautiful harmonies in the songs!

For the review does not extend too far I will not heed the other songs individually. Although there really are other highlights, such as Canção de Faroeste (influences westerns in vogue combined with the organ that overlaps throughout the album and more vocal harmonies, with the right to the music saloon!), O Vento, a Chuva, o teu Olhar and instrumental Blue. But all are great! This is a prog masterpiece, which I recommend to everyone. Even if you know nothing of Portuguese listen to this album and watch the wonderful melodies that Flavio Venturini and his companions do. I'm really in love with this band, and I'm glad to know that it is not too late to enjoy the rock of my own country, progressive or not.

5 well-deserved stars!

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