Andre Gabeh "Andre Gabeh" (Som Livre, 2002)
Zildo Gaboto "Zildo Gaboto Descubre Brasil" (Music Hall)
Gabriel O Pensador - see artist discography
Gade & Waldrido Silva "Gafieira" (Musidisc, 1956) (LP)
Drummer Walfrido Silva and the pianist known as Gade composed all the songs on this album, with a sprightly vocal chorus singing cheerful, anthemic samba songs such as "Na Cadencia Do Tambor" (which sounds like it may have been intended as a Carnaval song.) There are also a number of instrumentals, some with familiar melodic themes... No indication of who the singers were (particularly the female lead) but regardless of the gaps in information, this is a lovely little record, a nice nostalgic disc from an era long gone.
Mona Gadelha "Mona Gadelha" (Movieplay, 1996)
Mona Gadelha "Cenas & Dramas" (Eldorado, 1999)
The second album by Mona Gadelha... Funky rock with a danceable groove on many tracks... A Slipcue reader had written me to recommend Gadelha's work, comparing her to similar artists such as Fernanda Abreu and Ana Carolina, and although Gadelha's production values aren't as slick as those major label gals, I think the reader hit the nail on the head. The modern rock guitars may be a little over-obvious at times, but this is certainly a different sound for Brazilian pop, and several songs are pretty good. Worth checking out.
Mona Gadelha "Tudo Se Move" (Brazilbizz, 2004)
Mona Gadelha "Salve A Beleza" (Brazilbizz, 2010)
Mona Gadelha "Praia Lirica" (Brazilbizz, 2011)
Maria Gadu "Maria Gadu" (Som Livre, 2009)
Maria Gadu "Multishow Ao Vivo" (Som Livre, 2010)
Maria Gadu "Multishow Ao Vivo" (Som Livre, 2010) (DVD)
Maria Gadu & Caetano Veloso "Multishow Ao Vivo" (Universal, 2011)
Maria Gadu & Caetano Veloso "Multishow Ao Vivo" (Universal, 2011) (DVD)
Maria Gadu "Mais Uma Pagina" (Sony/Som Livre, 2011)
(Produced by Rodrigo Vidal)
The Galaxies "The Galaxies" (Som Maior, 1969) (LP)
This one is a super-duper weird one... Just listening to this English-language folk-rock set, I was skeptical that this was really a Brazilian record, but according to Senhor F -- the world expert on weird, rare Brazilian rock -- this album was a collaboration between English expatriate David Charles Odams and American-born Jocelyn Ann Odams (presumably his wife?) who made the scene in '60s Sao Paulo and cut an album with the backing of a garage band with some connection to Os Baobas. The band is okay -- crude drumming, fun, fuzzy electric guitars -- though the Odamses are laughably bad. Not quite Foot-Foot-Shaggs bad, but certainly bad enough to become a Dr. Demento-ish college radio kitsch fave, sort of a mediocre '60s folk duo doing Merseybeat covers with some unsuspecting Brazilians backing them up, thinking they were the real deal. There are goofy versions of songs by Lee Hazelwood, Donovan, Love, Unit 4+2 and the like. But, yes, it is a Brazilian album, or at least it's a part of Brazilian rock history. Ah, Sao Paulo... always something new and surprising!
Carlos Galhardo "O Homem Da Valsa" (Revivendo, 2003)
Carlos Galhardo "Um Sorriso... Uma Frase... Um Flor..." (Revivendo, 2003)
Gallotti "O Samba Das Rodas" (Rob Digital, 2003)
Galo Preto - see artist discography
Lula Galvao & Rosa Passos "Letra E Musica: Ary Barroso" (Lumiar, 2002)
An homage to samba-cancao composer Ary Barroso, with duets by singer-guitarist Rosa Passos and guitarist Lula Galvao, one of the preeminent MPB sidemen of the 1970s and '80s.
Lula Galvao "Bossa Da Minha Terra/Bossa Of My Land" (2010)
A very swank, slick, all-instrumental bossa nova set, with guest performers that include Raul de Souza, Mauricio Einhorn, Rosa Passos and Claudio Roditi... A little too smooth for my tastes, but very good for the genre.
Isaura Garcia - see artist discography
Mario Garcia "Sr. Cisne" (Itaipu, 1982) (LP)
Torturously dull electric guitar instrumentals, with obvious debts to noodly rock-fusion pickers such as Stevie Vai, Jeff Beck, and Carlos Santana, although there's little on here that's as fluid or imaginative as anything those dino-dudes ever did... Apparently Garcia was into exploring the African musical traditions in Uruguay and other Latin American locales, as well as the "trio eletrico" style of the Recife Carnaval parades... The Brazilian connection you can hear, but the other stuff seems pretty well buried under the dreadful rock influences. Really not a record I need to hear again... ever.
Paulinho Garcia "Solo/Sozinho" (Southport, 1998)
Garganta Profunda - see artist discography
Garoto - see artist discography
Garoto "Garoto + Sexteto" (Farroupilha, 1966) (LP)
Not to be confused with legendary guitarist Anibal Augusto Sardinha (the "Garoto" listed above) this is vibrophonist named Altivo Penteado, who also took the Garoto nickname. He's backed by a small combo whose members are unfamiliar to me... The repertoire includes one original tune by Penteado, a few from Durval Ferreira, a bit of Jobim, and a bunch of tunes from Marcos Valle. Apparently they had some connection to the group Os Farroupilhas...
Garotos Da Rua "Garotos Da Rua" (RCA Victor, 1986)
(Produced by Marcelo Susskind & Miguel Plopschi)
Formed in the early 1980s, Garotos Da Rua was a guitar rock band with a classic hard-rock sound, emulating groups like the Rolling Stones and their ilk, though as you can tell from their album's pastel-xerox artwork, they came to prominence during Brazilian rock's post-tropicalia flirtation with new wave and punk rock. Hailing from the south of Brazil around Porto Alegre, Garotos Da Rua originally included Ricardo Cordeiro on saxophone, Bebeco Garcia (guitar), Edinho Galhardi (drums) and bassist Sergio Mello. However, Sergio Mello had left the band for a solo career before this debut album came out, to be replaced by Geraldo Freitas; the group also added a second guitarist, Justino Vasconcelos, to further fill out their sound. Throughout the late '80s and '90s, they toured widely as one of Brazil's premiere stadium rock bands.
Garotos Da Rua "Doutor Em Rock'n'Roll" (Plug Records, 1987)
Garotos Da Rua "Nao Basta Dizer Nao" (RCA Victor, 1988)
Garotos Da Rua "Ao Vivo" (1992)
Garotos Da Rua "Hot 20" (RCA Victor, 1999)
A best-of collection...
Garotos Da Rua "Caminho Da Estrada" (2004)
Os Gatos "Os Gatos" (Philips, 1964) (LP)
Os Gatos "Aquele Som Dos Gatos" (PolyGram, 1966) (LP)
(Produced by Dori Caymmi)
An all-star schlockfest... String-laden easy listening, arranged by Eumir Deodato and produced by Dorival Caymmi's son, Dori. Mostly slow, tacky instrumental versions of bossa nova standards, featuring the tragically squandered talent of Paulo Moura, as well as EZ-fusion flautist, J. T. Meirelles. One point of interest, though: could the "Betty" Carvalho listed as a backup singer actually be future samba star, Beth Carvalho? Anyone know for sure?
Juliano Gauche & Duo Zebedeu "Hoje Nao" (2009)
A tribute to avant-rocker Sergio Sampaio, with twelve songs reinterpreted by latter-day rockers Juliano Gauche and Duo Zebedeu...
Gaucho E Seu Conjunto Melodico "Ritmos A La Carte" (RGE, 1958) (LP)
Gaucho E Seu Conjunto "Rio... Madrugada E Amor" (RGE, 1958) (LP)
Pretty kitschy, soft-edged dance music/easy listening from the old days... Apparently there were several artists calling themselves "Gaucho" at the time, but this album was made by an accordionist who recorded several other records in the pre-bossa era. He's working here with a small piano-bass-drums-electric guitar combo -- no idea who the other musicians were, but their backing is pretty by-the-numbers. Nothing too special, but for connoisseurs of lounge music and easy pop, this might be a treat.
Os Gaudeiros "Boa Viagem" (Premier, 1974) (LP)
Lindolfo Gaya "Boa Viagem" (Odeon, 1960) (LP)
Lindolfo Gaya "Rio De 400 Janeiros" (Elenco, 1965) (LP)
(Produced and arranged by Lindolfo Gaya)
An interesting outing from Lindolfo Gaya, one of the most prominent and prolific Brazilian pop arrangers of the 1960s and '70s. Frequently credited as "Maestro Gaya," he produced or arranged bazillions of albums for EMI-Odeon, but is featured here as a recording artist in his own right. This record was sort of a concept album based on Gaya's musical revue at the Copacabana Palace Hotel, a celebration of the 400th anniversary of the city of Rio de Janeiro, showcasing various style of music associated with both Rio and Brazil, with examples of samba, bossa nova, seresta ballads, etc. But it's all done in over-the-top orchestral renditions, with a big, blaring, emphatic brass section and an equally bombastic vocal chorus that tackles the samba-cancao numbers with particular gusto. Sometimes it's a bit much, but overall, an album worth delving into. Some tracks are actually good listening, while others are a bit much. I'm going to have to poke around a little and see if I can find out who some of the singers and soloists, such as the Coro de Delphino Filho, Fernando Lebeis, and "Marion" were...
Lindolfo Gaya "Gaya" (London-Odeon, 1970) (LP)
A mega-schmaltzadelic, multilayered easy-listening cheesefest, with fuzzed-out electric guitar, ooh-wahh vocal choruses, a persistent harpsichord, meandering electric bass, outlandish orchestral arrangements and lots of questionable choices in repertoire. For those so inclined, this one's a doozy! Some tracks, like the Beatles and Bacharach covers are too much for me, but some of this is fun in a totally over-the-top kind of way.
Mario Gennari Filho "Sucessos" (Odeon, 1965) (LP)
(Produced by Milton Miranda & Lyrio Panicali)
The contemporary mid-1960's bossa canon, as interpreted on accordion, along with light rhythmic accompaniment and a modest vocal chorus. This is a lot richer and more textured than I had anticipated -- Gennari was a very supple and inventive musician, teasing tones and drones out of the squeezebox that are as surprising as they are rewarding. Ultimately, yes, this is yet another kitschy "easy listening" instrumental set, but fans of the accordion will want to check it out, maybe even a few bossa buffs as well. Unfortunately, the other musicians aren't identified -- I'm kind of curious about the guitar player, who were pretty lively and provide good counterpoints to the chromatics of the main instrument. Anyone know who they were, or if these guys made any other albums?
The Gentlemen "The Gentlemen" (1972)
A late-edition album by these veterans of the jovem guarda... The Gentlemen originally formed in 1966, with Ze Ramalho as a founding member, though he was long gone by the time this disc came out... This disc starts out with a blistering acid-rock fuzz-guitar instrumental song, clearly influenced by Carlos Santana; what follows is a parade of softer rock-pop songs, including several cover tunes, which varies in tone from (early) Bee Gees-style wimpy to Animals-esque bluesiness. A taste of heavy rock reasserts itself on songs such as "Vazio," "O Embarque" and "Eu Juro," but mostly this is softer stuff, mainly in line with the JG scene of the late '60s. Keep in mind the scene they came out of: compared to top bands such as The Fevers and Renato & Seus Blue Caps, though, these guys sound relatively rugged. Definitely worth checking out if you're into the JG sound.
Georgette "A Moca Vestido De Branco" (Tapecar, 1975) (LP)
(Produced by Sadi)
Includes several songs by Raquel da Bahia...
Geovana "Quem Tem Carinho Me Leva" (RCA, 1975) (LP)
(Produced by Rildo Hora)
Delicious roots samba from a songwriter who provided early '70s hits for Clara Nunes, Jair Rodrigues and other stars of the acoustic pagode movement. Geovana herself had a husky, earthy voice and wasn't as supple a stylist or as evocative and transcendent as Nunes, Alcione or the other divas of the day, but she uses her limitations well: each track exudes a sense of quiet reserve, and a summoning of strength... Plus, the musicianship is stellar, with a band packed with usual-suspects 'Seventies talent, including a few surprises, such as jazz pianist Luiz Eca credited with arranging a few tunes. This is the stuff I love: groovy, swaying rhythms, seductive cavaquinho riffs, keening vocal choruses -- classic revival samba from the peak years of the style. Highly recommended! (Note: this was reissued on CD in 2003.)
Andre Geraissati - see artist discography
The Geraldo Trio "Bossa G" (Chantecler, 1963) (LP)
Bandleader Jose Geraldo (a pseudonym?) was the bandleader on this sprightly session, which often tilts towards the cutesy and the novel, but has some nice moments despite being pretty lightweight overall. The title track, which includes a vocal refrain was written by Geraldo; the rest of the (all instrumental) repertoire includes some then-current bossa hits, a fair sampling of old samba-cancao ballads and even a couple of choro tunes: one of these is a Pixinguinha tune, "Carinhoso," which gets a little too coy for me, although the version of Ernesto Nazareth's "Brejeiro" at the end is a nice surprise. "Lounge" fans will want to check this out, possibly jazz fans as well: there's speculation that Kenny Burrell is the guitarist on at least a few tunes; my ear isn't fine tuned enough to offer an opinion on that particular rumor... Anyone have any theories about who the gals in the "Bossa G" chorus might be?
Ze Geraldo - see artist discography
Alcides Gerardi "Selecao De Ouro - 20 Sucessos" (EMI-Brasil, 1998)
Alcides Gerardi "Serie Bis - Cantores Do Radio" (EMI-Brasil, 2000)
Another gem in this series. Gerardi specialized in swooping romantic ballads, with more than a hint of Argentine tangos and French musette... Schmaltzy but delightful, this 2-CD set kick off with a few galloping, lounge-y swing tunes and settles into calmer, cornier material. It's all really good... recommended!
Gera Samba "Gera Samba" (1994)
This is the group that later evolved into the highly-successful samba-pop "axe" band, E O Tchan.
Gera Samba "E O Tchan" (Polygram, 1996)
The band changes its name... So... Is this an album by Gera Samba called "E O Tchan," or an album by E O Tchan called "Gera Samba"? Oh, my head is spinning!
Gera Samba "Balanco Envolvente" (Sony, 2002)
Gereba - see artist discography
Stan Getz - see Joao Gilberto and my Brazilian Jazz section
Claudionor Germano "Capiba: 25 Anos De Frevo" (Mocambo, 1959) (LP)
A big-bandy tribute to northeastern frevo composer Capiba, with earnest but fairly un-engaging vocals by Claudionor Germano... Not a lot of variety from song to song... Also, even though the rhythms are right, the energy level seems kind of low for a frevo record: maybe the style sounded a lot different back in the 'Fifties?
Claudionor Germano & Capiba "25 Anos De Frevo" (2007)
Claudionor Germano "20 Supersucessos" (Sony, 1998)
Claudionor Germano "20 Supersucessos, v.2" (Sony, 1999)
Claudionor Germano "Carnaval De Capiba" (InterCD, 1986)
Claudionor Germano "Carnaval Cantado De Nelson Ferreira" (2007)
Geronimo - see artist discography
Giane "Esta E Giane - A Voz Docura" (Chantcler, 1964) (LP)
Giane "Giane" (Chantcler, 1965) (LP)
Giane "Suavemente" (Chantcler, 1965) (LP)
Giane "Vitrola Digital" (Warner, 2007)
A best-of set for this jovem guarda minor-leaguer...
Gil "Me Beija" (Universal, 2001)
The first solo album from axe star (and future television host) Gilmelandia Palmeira dos Santos (or just plain old "Gil," to her fans...) She was the lead singer for Banda Beijo from 1998-2001 and went on to host a series of TV shows, using her given name, Gilmelandia...
Gil "Movimento" (Abril, 2002)
Gil "O Canto Da Sereia" (EMI, 2005)
Gilberto Gil - see artist discography
Preta Gil "Pret-A-Porter" (Warner, 2003)
The first solo album from Gilberto Gil's daughter, Preta Gil... Includes several Ana Carolina compositions.
Preta Gil "Preta" (Universal, 2005)
Preta Gil "Noite Preta Ao Vivo" (Universal, 2010)
Preta Gil "Noite Preta Ao Vivo" (Universal, 2010) (DVD)
Astrud Gilberto - see artist discography
Bebel Gilberto - see artist discography
Joao Gilberto - see artist discography
The Gilbertos "Os Eurosambas: 1992-1998" (Midsummer Madness, 1999)
Indierock doesn't have a particularly large following in Brazil, but this was one of the most widely available albums of its kind to come out of the tiny indie scene. Released by the folks at the Rio-based Midsummer Madness 'zine, this is unfortunately a less-than stellar album, rehashing musical themes from the US and European twee and lo-fi scenes, though with little drive or focus, as far as I can tell. Songwriter Thomas Pappon previously fronted a band called the Fellinis and ran the independent Stiletto label (none of which I've heard or have first-hand experience with...) but here he seems self-indulgent and diffuse, trying all sorts of techniques but without generating much spark. Dunno; maybe it's just me. Still, there's plenty of international lo-fi rock and twee stuff that I have heard and liked (or disliked), so I think I have enough of a background in rock to know a disappointment when I hear one. Still, for those who are curious, this may be a disc worth checking out, if just to know what's out there...
Gino & Geno "Gino & Geno" (Warner-Continental, 1989)
Regional music from the sertaneja... Sounds like a mellow version of Mexican ranchera to me, but what do I know? I'm just a dumb gringo. Apparently this duo is one of the more influential acts in the Northeastern caipira scene... This disc includes "Procurando Treta" and "Chuva Grossa."
Gino & Geno "Gino E Geno" (Warner-Brasil, 1991)
Brazilian sertanejo from the Northeast is considered hick music... The artists dress up like cowboys, and the songs sound quite a bit like Mexican rancheras. Gino e Geno are stars of the genre, and this early album is okay for what it is... But it's also a bit dull, at least to outsiders. Still, if you want to check the style out, this disc is a pretty good example.
"The Girls From Brazil" - see Quarteto Em Cy
Egberto Gismonti - see artist discography
Radames Gnattali - see artist profile
Adylson Godoy "Sou Sem Paz" (RGE, 1965)
The one and only album by pianist-composer Adylson Godoy, who also sang in a robust, bellowing style which verged on tonelessness. The arrangements by Erlon Chaves are more exciting than the vocals: some of these orchestrations are rather dynamic and innovative, and may unexpectedly snag your ears. (Particularly cool are the arrangements on "Da-Me," a single that was added to later editions of the original LP...) I wouldn't say Godoy is my favorite-ever vocalist, but this album does have some interesting 'Sixties-era charm. Apparently he was the brother of Amilson Godoy, of the fabled Zimbo Trio...? Anyone know for sure?
Amilson Godoy "Amilson Godoy" (?)
Amilson Godoy & Nivaldo Ornelas "Musica Viva" (Azul, 2007)
Amilson Godoy & Os Irmaoes Assad "Instrumental No CCBB" (Azul, 2002)
Maria Lucia Godoy "Interpreta Villa Lobos" (Philips, 1977) (LP)
An operatic soprano vocalist (with a fabulous voice) singing interpretations of classic Heitor Villa Lobos compositions, with backing by a fairly subdued chamber ensemble. I like the backing; less so the vocals, but that's mostly because I'm not so keen on opera to begin with. I'm not sure who created the lyrics to match the music, although I did feel that they mostly overshadowed the original melodies. But then again what do I know? I'm more of a pop person. Also features guitarist Sergio Abreu who, along with his brother Eduardo, formed the highly-regarded Duo Abreu, who worked with Godoy on related Villa-Lobos projects.
Maria Lucia Godoy "Modinhas Imperiais" (Independentes)
Maria Lucia Godoy "Canta Brasil/Italia" (Independentes)
A 2-CD set...
Maria Lucia Godoy "Floresta Do Amazonas" (Independentes)
A 1988 concert of Villa-Lobos material, with Godoy as the soloist in front of the Orquestra Sinfonica do Rio De Janeiro...
Golden Boys - see artist discography
Gerli & Haroldo Goldfarb "O Lirismo De Paulinho Tapajos" (Dabliu, 2003)
(Produced by Haroldo Goldfarb)
A mellow, jazz-tinged old-school MPB tribute to lyricist Paulinho Tapajos, featuring compositions co-written by Cartola, Danilo Caymmi, Claudio Nucci, Sivuca and others. This is a bit polished and smooth for my tastes, but fans of the classic smooth-jazz MPB of Chico Buarque, Joao Bosco, Gal Costa, et. al., might really enjoy this...
Pepeu Gomes - see artist discography
Mary Goncalves "Convite Ao Romance" (Sinter, 1952)
(Musical direction by Lyrio Panicalli)
Very old-fashioned, old-school, pre-bossa nova romantic ballads, sung by actress Mary Goncalves to modest accompaniment which (apparently) included Johnny Alf on piano, Billy Blanco, and Zeze Gonzaga singing as part of a backup trio called As Moreninhas. The flowery music hints at boleros and tangos, as well as the pop vocals schmaltz up North. Good for a real, heavy nostalgia trip, but pretty darn corny.
Nelson Goncalves - see artist discography
Chiquinha Gonzaga "A Maestrina" (Revivendo, 1999)
An impressive 2-CD set of EARLY recordings by one of the towering figures of Brazilian popular music, Rio's legendary Francisca Edwiges Neves Gonzaga, familiarly known as Chiquinha. Born in 1847, Gonzaga was one of the pivotal composers of samba cancao, as well as a pioneer of the jazz-ish choro style. She was also an integral part of the lowbrow salon scene that spawned the choro genre and the first samba escolas... This collection features some of the earliest popular recordings made in Brazil, the oldest dating back to 1902 (!), and the latest being from 1932, a few years before Gonzaga passed away. A fair chunk of these recordings feature Chiquinha herself, although most are interpretations of her work made by radio stars such as Francisco Alves and Gastao Formenti. There's a wide variety of styles -- she seems to have tried her hand at just about every thing, from homegrown toadas and samba cancao, to various foreign styles such as tangos, waltzes, polkas, Cuban-flavored habaneras, Portuguese fados, and even comedic sketches. The sound quality is pretty good, considering the antiquity of these recordings, and the fact that modern electric recording processes were not introduced in Brazil until 1927. A remarkable and indispensable musical document -- and a must-have for anyone intent on delving deep into Brazil's musical past.
Chiquinha Gonzaga "O Melhor De Chiquinha Gonzaga" (Revivendo, 2006)
Daniel Gonzaga "Sob O Sol" (Velas, 1996)
Daniel Gonzaga "Um Banquinho, Um Violao" (Sony/Seven Music, 2001)
Forro founder Luiz Gonzaga's grandson seems to have his heart in the right place, singing restrained acoustic versions of classic Gonzaga/Teixeira compositions, but his vocal prowess is pretty limited. Sometimes he just can't pull off the intimate phrasings he's aiming at. (Then again... maybe it was a major-label thing... Check out the record he did a few years later... (Below!)
Daniel Gonzaga "Areia" (Dabliu, 2004)
Quite nice! The grandson of Brazilian forro legend Luiz Gonzaga (and the son of 1970s MPB composer Gonzaguinha), Daniel Gonzaga may be one of Brazil's "next big things..." He shares his dad's affinity for modern pop, but sticks much closer to straight guitar rock. The mature-sounding, multi-textured album opens with a cool blues song, a John Lee Hooker-ish tribute to Milton Nascimento, and then slips into some softer, slinkier songs that have some gentle slide riffs that remind me of George Harrison. The mood and listenability is sustained throughout the length of the album, and though I could live without the funk hooks (and semi-rapping) on some later tracks, overall this is a very strong record. Fans of Os Paralamas or Renato Russo will probably love this one... Recommended!
Luiz Gonzaga - see artist discography
Zeze Gonzaga - see artist discography
Gonzaguinha (Luiz Gonzaga, Jr.) - see artist discography
Lanny Gordin - see artist discography
Gordurinha "Ta Na Praca" (Continental, 1960) (LP)
Gordurinha "Mamae Estou Agradando" (Continental, 1961) (LP)
Gordurinha "A Bossa Do Gordurinha" (RCA, 1962)
A lovely but unusual album, recently reissued on CD... Gordurinha (born Waldeck Artur de Macedo) was a Northeastern songwriter, best known for the hit, "Chiclete Com Banana," which was recorded by Jackson Do Pandeiro around the same time as this album was made. What's odd about this album is how it veers into non-Brazilian dance styles, particularly Afro-Cuban son (referred to as "cha-cha-cha" on the liner notes). The songs are all of Brazilian vintage, but the arrangements have a foreign sound. It's cool, just kind of unusual for Brazilian pop. The reference to "bossa" was, I think, meant to be ironic -- there's certainly no trace of the Jobim-Gilberto sound on here.
Gordurinha "...Um Espetaculo" (Copacabana, 1964)
Gordurinha "Gordurinha" (Musicolor, 1969)
Gordurinha/Carmelina Alves "Mestres De MPB" (Warner, 1994)
Gordurinha/Various Artists "Confraria Do Gordurinha" (Warner, 1999)
A tribute album, featuring Gilberto Gil, Marta Milani and Confraria da Bazofia.
Eli Goulart & Banda Do Mato "Bicho Do Mato" (Unique, 2001)
Light, bouncy, upbeat jazz-bossa-soul from a fellow who is presumably related to "radio singer" Jorge Goulart. This breezy, lightly funky set isn't really my cup of tea, but I'm sure a lot of folks would find it quite nice, particularly those on the modern-day acid-jazz tip. Worth checking out.
Jorge Goulart & Nora Ney "Nora Ney & Jorge Goulart" (InterCD, 2000)
Older recordings by two romantic balladeers of the pre-bossa nova "radio singer" era. Although Ney and Goulart did record and perform together throughout several decades, these ten songs are all solo efforts, not duets -- four by Ney, six by Goulart. Some of it's really fun, in a super-corny, kitschy kinda way; some of the songs are way over the top and too goopy. This cheapo reissue package is worth checking out, just to get a sense of the style of the times, although you can't help but feel these artists could be better served by more extensive, better programmed selections.
Jorge Goulart "Grandes Vozes" (Som Livre, 2008)
Jorge Goulart "The Music Of Brazil - Recordings: 1958" (Black Round Records, 2009)
Ton Graca & Carlos Costa "Ton Graca & Carlos Costa" (Chantacler, 1973) (LP)
Graforreia Xilarmonic "Ao Vivo" (2007)
Graveola "...E O Lixo Polifonico" (Mais Um Discos, 2009)
Graveola "Um E Meio" (Mais Um Discos, 2009)
Graveola "Eu Preciso De Um Liquidificador" (Mais Um Discos, 2013)
Graveola "Vozes Invis’veis (2 e 1/2)" (Mais Um Discos, 2014)
O Grupo "O Grupo" (Odeon, 1968) (LP)
(Produced by Milton Miranda & Lyrio Panicali)
A mix of perky samba-pop and softer, blander pop-orchestral arrangements behind a bright, breezy male vocal group... The jazziness of the bossa era gives way to a soft-pop sensibility that would age into the "brega" style of the '70s. Some of the vocal arrangements are nice, but mostly this is easy listening, of the unchallenging and ultimately cloying kind. A few questions regarding the bandmembers: there are several Quartin brothers, and I believe Roberto Quartin was the jazz musician who started his own label(?) Also worth noting that the arrangers (and there were a bunch of them!) included Antonio Adolfo, Nelsinho, Lyrio Panicali and Ugo Marotta... quite a lineup!
O Grupo "O Grupo E Coisa E Tal..." (Copacabana, 1971) (LP)
(Produced by Moacyr Silva)
Their third album was oddly uneven, with the group careening even further into a nakedly "pop" (easy listening) sound, though weirdly combined with a couple of more rugged soul-funk tunes. The soft-pop vocals are really insipid, as are a pair of cutesy novelty tunes that have a Rolf Harris-y feel to them, including a bilingual cover of the faux-calypso "Matilda." Certainly not your typical Brazilian fare. Perhaps most noteworthy is the album's repertoire: one song, "Vera Verinha," was written by the group's flautist, Mauricio Duboc: was he related to jazz singer Jane Duboc? Anyone know? There are also early songs by Toninho Horta and Jair Amorim, while Fred Falcao contributes two Black Rio-flavored soul numbers in the style of early Tim Maia. The funk numbers are glaringly at odds with the super-wimpy soft pop... But if you like MPB-4, this might be of interest, and some tracks are better than others, with "O Problema Dela" perhaps the album's standout track.
Grupo Acaba "Cantadores Do Pantanal" (Marcus Pereira, 1979) (LP)
Grupo Agua "Transparencia" (Som Livre, 1978)
Grupo Agua "Amanheceres" (SYM, 1981)
Grupo Batuque "Samba De Rua" (FarOut Records, 1997)
A funk- and rock-flavored percussion album recorded (in the studio) during Rio's 1997 Carnaval. Features the eminent Wilson Das Neves and a slew of younger players. I thought most of these tracks were pretty boring; many are monotonous riffs on one swinging beat or another, it's all very well and fine, but overall it's amazingly static. I suspect this album was made with club DJs in mind, folks looking for beats to sample, rather than for the casual listener... There is one song at the end ("Aoyama Sam") which features a full parade ensemble, along with cuica, surdo, and (thank god!) a vocal chorus... But mostly this album is really sparse and un-melodic. Not my cup of tea, but if you're into percussion per se, this album might be a real turn-on.
Grupo Batuque "Samba De Futebol" (FarOut, 1998)
Grupo Batuque "Africa Brazil" (FarOut, 2000)
Grupo Batuque/Various Artists "O Tempo Do Samba" (FarOut, 2005)
Remixes galore!
Grupo Batuque "O Tempo Do Samba" (FarOut, 2005)
Grupo Batuque "Ole Ola - Futebol Bonito" (FarOut, 2006)
Grupo Batuque "Batucada Maneira" (FarOut, 2006)
A four-song EP, including two remixes of the title track, "Batucada Maneira."
Grupo Cata Luzes "Viagem Cigana" (Calem, 1983) (LP)
Grupo D'Alma "A Quem Interessar Possa" (Clam Records, 1979) (LP)
(Produced by Armando Mihanovitch & Andre Geraissati)
An acoustic guitar trio featuring Andre Geraissati, Candido Penteado, and Ruy Salerne... Light, bright fare, but nice, with an eclectic range of Brazilian and non-Brazilian jazz influences, including shout-outs to Mingus and other nods towards the outside world. Fans of John McLaughlin, et.al. might want to check these guys out.
Grupo D'Alma "Grupo D'Alma" (Som Da Gente, 1981) (LP)
Grupo D'Alma "D'Alma" (Som Da Gente, 1984)
Grupo Fundo Do Quintal - see artist profile
Grupo Manifesto "Manifesto Musical" (Elenco, 1967)
One of the many politically-minded bossa nova groups that took their cues from theatrically oriented, second generation bossa songwriters such as Chico Buarque and Edu Lobo. Manifesto's sound was primarily choral, although there are some nice vocal solos on this album -- it's kind of like Quarteto em Cy without all the saccharine. A little stagey, but nice.
Grupo Manifesto "Grupo Manifesto No. 2" (Elenco, 1968) (LP)
Another lively, melodic set from this star-studded ensemble... Several stalwarts of the early '70s MPB scene were in this band, including singer Gracinha Leporace, composer Guto Graca Melo and Augusto Cesar Pinheiro, and future prog-pop star and poet, Guttemberg Guarabyra... among others! Quite a lineup of talent, though the album is pretty restrained and elegant. Nice latter-day bossa nova, with strong melodies and a tilt towards the female singers in the band. Definitely worth checking out!
Grupo Revelacao "Revelacao" (BMG, 2000)
The debut album from a modern pagode-samba band with slick production but a back-to-the-roots sound that's kind of nice to hear. They definitely grow on you!
Grupo Revelacao "Nosso Samba Virou Religiao" (BMG, 2001)
(Produced by Sergio Bittencourt & Bira Haway)
A mix of live and studio tracks... Generally, the studio stuff is a bit overproduced and poppy, even though there is a solid foundation of old-school pagode samba. This one didn't grab me as much as other Revelacao stuff I've heard, but it ain't bad.
Grupo Revelacao "O Melhor Do Pagode De Mesa" (BMG, 2002)
Grupo Revelacao "Ao Vivo No Olimpo" (Deckdisc, 2002)
(Produced by Joao Augusto & Leo Garrido)
A concert album with super-singalong buy-in from the audience... Not only are they reverential (and well-miked!) but you can also hear the youthfulness in their voices, mirroring that of the band. So, yeah, maybe these guys really do represent the future of Brazilian samba music -- the audience participation may frequently outshine the music, but it does make for an exciting listening experience, at least the first time around. Nothing terribly ground-breaking, though... in fact, it's downright formulaic, if you wanna be totally honest about things. But still, it's sweet and pleasantly acoustic-based... Nice change of pace from all the glitz and noise of its more elaborately produced contemporaries.
Grupo Revelacao "Novos Tempos" (Deckdisc, 2003)
(Produced by Joao Augusto)
Sweet. When the album opened, I thought the production sounded too slick and poppy, but it soon settled into a straight-ahead acoustic samba sound, with plenty of cavaquinho strumming and nice, smooth vocals, and I was digging it. This is kind of easy-listening samba, but it sure is pleasant. Cheerful, easy on the ears, and not cluttered up with big pop arrangements.
Grupo Revelacao "Ao Vivo -- Na Palma Da Mao" (Deckdisc, 2004)
Grupo Revelacao "Ao Vivo No Olimpo" (DVD) (Deckdisc, 2005)
Grupo Revelacao "Velocidade Da Luz" (Deckdisc, 2006)
Grupo Revelacao "100%" (Deckdisc, 2007)
Grupo Revelacao "Maxximum" (Sony-BMG, 2007)
Grupo Xodo "Morena Moreno" (Copacabana, 1977) (LP)
(Produced by Antonio Carlos de Oliveira & Paulo Rocco)
Grupo Zambo "Bahia" (Discos Marcus Pereira, 1976) (LP)
Vince Guaraldi - see Bossa Nova Jazz
Gianfrancesco Guarnieri/Toquinho/Marlene "O Botequim" (RGE, 1973) (LP)
Another sweet bossa-flavored album, with typically great guitar work by Toquinho, and actor Gianfrancesco Guarnieri taking on the role normally filled by Vinicius de Moraes. Marlene's vocals are sweet though perhaps not stellar. Overall, another lovely record, definitely worth tracking down.
Guttemberg Guarabyra "Casaco Marrom" (1969) (LP)
Guttemberg Guarabyra "Lembrancas Do Futuro" (Velas, 2007)
Eduardo Gudin - see artist discography
Beto Guedes - see artist discography
Fatima Guedes - see artist discography
Guem "O Universo Ritmico De Guem" (Som Da Gente, 1982) (LP)
Deep-roots drumming from an Algerian-born Franco-African percussionist, known for his work with the band Zaka. Here, Guem travels to Brazil to collaborate with local musicians such as Roberto Son, on a Brazilian-tinged outing. Many fans of African percussion consider this album to be a real gem.
Ze Guilherme "Recipiente" (Lua Music, 1996)
Renato Guimaraes "Show" (Chantecler, 1961) (LP)
Renato Guimaraes "E Seus Grandes Sucessos" (Chantecler, 1996)
Simone Guimaraes "Pirecema" (Independente, 1996)
Simone Guimaraes "Cirandeiro" (Tie Musical, 1997)
Simone Guimaraes "Aguape" (Tie Musical, 1999)
Simone Guimaraes "Virada Pra Lua" (Lua Discos, 2001)
Simone Guimaraes "Casa De Oceano" (Biscoito Fino, 2003)
A lush, somewhat oceanic set of MPB ballads by songwriter Simone Guimaraes... Her voice is comparatively fragile, and when guest stars such as Maria Bethania join her, Guimaraes quickly has to cede center stage. A duet with Milton Nascimento, on his classic "Milagre Dos Peixes," however, has a pleasant synergistic effect: the two soft voices slide around each other, each making room for the other, creating a subtle interplay that'll capture your ears and enchant you. A slew of talented musicians help sculpt the sound of this album, including Francis Hime, Guinga, and extensive collaboration from Bethania's own guitarist and bandleader, Jaime Alem. On the smooth side, but for fans of modern Brazilian ballads, a pretty nice disc.
Simone Guimaraes "Flor De Pao" (Biscoito Fino, 2007)
Almir Guineto - see artist discography
Guinga - see artist discography
Dani Gurgel "Agora" (Tratore, 2005)
Dani Gurgel "Dani Gurgel" (EP) (Tratore, 2008)
A 4-song EP...
Dani Gurgel "Nosso" (Dapa Virada, 2008)
