Open Web Player
Here are some great Deodato tunes recorded years before he became famous stateside. Vol. 2 of the Bossa Nova Sessions contains 24 mostly lesser-known bossa nova and jazz titles, each expressed in Deodato's inimitable keyboard style and powered by his trademark percussive arrangements.
Though bossa nova informs the soul of the music, this CD is animated by jazz, 60s jazz, with lots of horns and a tight, steady rhythm. Those of a certain age will be taken way back by Deodato's distinctive Hammond organ and be brought to their feet by the sprightly play of Deodato's virtuoso sidemen.
While listening, you must remember that these tunes were recorded in the mid-60s. Then you can appreciate how advanced for his day Deodato was. I was familiar with only a few of the cuts, amongst which are Comencou de Brincadeira, Menina Flor, a couple of Henry Mancini tunes: Champagne and Quail and also My Manne Shelly, Da-me Um Martelo (If I Had A Hammer), and Tristeza.
Out of the whole lot, only Da-me Um Martelo seems out of place.
Though I recommend this CD to serious Deodato fans, Vol. 1 of the Bossa Nova sessions is much better if you can find it. Hats off to the Italian company Irma Records for reissuing this compilation and giving those of us who knew of Deodato only from his CTI days forward a chance to sample and enjoy his early work.
