DURANTE O VERÃO

Durante O Ver'o consists of mostly agreeable Brazilian folk music, but a little bland for my taste. The instrumentation and sound are consistent to a fault. Those with an affinity for Harmonium or the folky side of Gentle Giant should spring for this record.

'Durante O Ver'o' Pleasant classical guitar and flute ease into soft-spoken vocals. The cello and shakers add depth to a friendly tune.

'Hotel Colonial' Here lies a darker, more avant-garde approach complete with complex vocals not unlike Gentle Giant's convoluted harmonies. Gypsy-like percussion and violin craft a whirlwind of sound together. A fluttering flute dances in the tempest.

'A L'ngua E A Bainha' This acoustic track plods along with thudding bass, soft violin and sunny singing.

'Os Pilares Da Cultura' Hammering piano brings in a full band in this jazzier rock and roll song.

'Karen' What sounds like metalworking in a jungle gives way to tranquil flute- not particularly interesting but a decent interlude nonetheless.

'Memorial Day' Voices, percussion and strange guitar passages suddenly stop and the song proper begins, featuring mellifluous vocals and rustic violin. An acoustic guitar duet and more of the Gentle Giant-like vocals make an appearance before some experimental jazz business.

'Banquete' This light folk song is reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel. Violin and flute dance together in a festive manner. Clean lead guitar joins in over the original peaceful music toward the end.

'Belladonna, Lady of the Rocks' Swerving in and out of acoustic and heavier passages, the penultimate song of this album has an early King Crimson flavor to it before charging off into a gritty electric guitar solo.

'Outros Carnavais' Rapid acoustic strumming and airy vocals introduce further flute and violin cooperation.