MEUS MOMENTOS

As a casual "fan" of 14 Bis, it has been difficult to decipher the history of the "Meus Momentos" collection given the paucity of English language information and its lack of inclusion in many of the band's discographies. It appears that this was originally issued in 1994 as a compilation of the band's material up that point. Several years later a second "Meus Mometos" was issued, presumably containing an update. In 2002, the two compilations were issued as a double CD also called "Meus Momentos". No triple CD yet in sight.

This is basically well crafted string heavy pop music with luscious harmonies sung in Portuguese, with a certain child-like innocent quality about it. Very little about it is dark, although I cannot confirm whether the lyrics are downbeat or not. Influences of the MOODY BLUES, BEATLES, PROCOL HARUM and a host of 70s soft rock groups like BREAD and AMERICA filter through. In short, it might not be of much interest here if not for an association with more overtly progressive O TERCO, and another possibility is this "hits" collection does not do justice to the apparently well hidden progressive side to the group.

It's all pretty nice but not too distinctive, with a few exceptions. "Planeta Sonho" has a divine melody on synths, fine vocal performances, and shifts of pace, and the inclusion of native "hillbilly" stylings in "Mesmo de Brincadeira" might not be to everyone's taste, but it shows the band stretching out and within, without embarassment, and alternates with short more reflective passages with a professional's touch.

While those with an aversion to pop would do well to steer clear, others who sometimes enjoy having fewer demands placed on them may find some delightful moments herein.