Brazilian guitarist Fabiano do Nascimento is back with his latest album, Vila, which sees him teaming up with the 16-piece Vittor Santos Orquestra. The result is a sprawling, orchestral composition that showcases Nascimento's versatility as a player.
Nascimento's sound is undeniably muscular and expansive, effortlessly conjuring the image of four hands on six strings. His previous output has been equally diverse, ranging from tender duets with saxophonist Sam Gendel to electronic-infused collaborations like Aquร ticos. On Vila, however, Nascimento leans into orchestral composition, allowing each track to unfold in its own unique way.
The album's 11 tracks feature a range of moods and textures, from the sprightly O Tempo (Foi o Meu Mestre), which sees Nascimento switch between double-time swing and half-time sway, to the lush, bossa-influenced orchestrations of Valsa and Floresta Dos Sonhos. Conductor Vittor Santos's arrangements are reminiscent of fellow countryman Arthur Verocai, producing enveloping harmonies that luxuriate in gentle viola and violin lines.
While not every moment reaches dramatic or explosive potential, the album never falls flat. Nascimento is a master of dexterity, effortlessly shifting between metallic picking and warm strumming on his guitar. The result is imaginative mood music that, even without an attention-grabbing crescendo or solo, still manages to move listeners with its soft melody.
Fans of world music will find plenty to love in Vila, particularly those who appreciate the rich textures of bossa nova and Afrobeat. With Nascimento's virtuosic guitar work at the forefront, this album is a testament to his skill as a composer and performer.
Nascimento's sound is undeniably muscular and expansive, effortlessly conjuring the image of four hands on six strings. His previous output has been equally diverse, ranging from tender duets with saxophonist Sam Gendel to electronic-infused collaborations like Aquร ticos. On Vila, however, Nascimento leans into orchestral composition, allowing each track to unfold in its own unique way.
The album's 11 tracks feature a range of moods and textures, from the sprightly O Tempo (Foi o Meu Mestre), which sees Nascimento switch between double-time swing and half-time sway, to the lush, bossa-influenced orchestrations of Valsa and Floresta Dos Sonhos. Conductor Vittor Santos's arrangements are reminiscent of fellow countryman Arthur Verocai, producing enveloping harmonies that luxuriate in gentle viola and violin lines.
While not every moment reaches dramatic or explosive potential, the album never falls flat. Nascimento is a master of dexterity, effortlessly shifting between metallic picking and warm strumming on his guitar. The result is imaginative mood music that, even without an attention-grabbing crescendo or solo, still manages to move listeners with its soft melody.
Fans of world music will find plenty to love in Vila, particularly those who appreciate the rich textures of bossa nova and Afrobeat. With Nascimento's virtuosic guitar work at the forefront, this album is a testament to his skill as a composer and performer.