I came across Luiz Bonfa the outstanding Brazilian bossanova guitarist and songwriter, via a 1966 Catarina Valente album.
Though not a household name his melodies resonate as much as Jobim or Sergio Mendes.
In 1967 Bonfa released his self titled…
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I can remember this song when I was very young. It was a UK number one hit in 1969 - and even though its unbelievably nearly 60 years ago - I can still remember most of the lyrics!
The European…
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This album released in 1957 is a personal favorite - and sumptuous is the best way I can describe it.
It just oozes smooth sophistication and charm : the glorious analog recording at Capitol Studios Hollywood and musicianship is excellent.
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To quote the mission statement on Rough Trade’s website :
“Ultimately, the point of a record label is to share exciting new music with the world. Yet few record labels have taken that purpose and turned it into a culture-transforming…
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This book was recently published by the grandson of the great J.R.R Tolkien of “Lord of the Rings” fame.
However “No Mans Land” - though not a biography of the elder Tolkiens experiences in WW1 -does touch on the experiences…
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Icelandic singer Laufey delivered one of my favorite albums of 2025 with “A Matter of Time”.
I originally discovered this talented songwriter and musician on Instagram reels with stripped down versions of her “Great American Songbook” and bossanova themed songs…
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Musical duo Rachael & Vilray caught my attention in an NPR interview and live in studio performance.
It was like stepping back to the golden age of the Mills Brothers,Les Paul and Mary Ford , Doris Day and Julie London…
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This week was the funeral for Mani -Stone Roses and Primal Scream bass player.
The outpouring of collective grief and sadness was notable - as he was a beloved and likable musician taken too young at aged 63.
Equally notable…
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In 1979 the music charts in the UK, reflected the aftermath of the dominance of Punk- with more polished and melodic yet still spiky tunes.
I’m thinking the early Police singles , Nick Lowe and of course XTC with “Making…
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This album was Chet Bakers first vocal album and an unlikely success.
Critics (and even the producer) at the time perceived the vocals of lacking power and an innocence that would not resonate with fans of the contemporary jazz vocalists…
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