Reviews (page 2 of 12)
Cool album I really like the different sound.
I have had this on repeat since my first listen.
I've been hating on Brazilians for most of my life, but I have to say I've really enjoyed all the Brazilian artists on this list. Jorge Ben Jor being the best of them. Amazing ryrhyms and beats, socially conscious lyrics (those I understood, my Portuguese isn't super, my Brazilian Portuguese even worse), and even a bit educational. Xica (Chica) Da Dilva and Zumbi, both pretty interesting figures. Great album, amazing artist. Nothing wrong with this album.
Cmon if you know me well you know this is my fave type of music hands down!! Squeaky balloon type of beats
27# Damn this is randomly giving me the artists I most love. Jorge Ben Jor is my favorite Brazilian artist. Didn't had the chance to listen to all of his projects, and this is one of them. My god what an ascending experience.
had me nodding along and wanting to grab an instrument to join in the entire time. Banger after banger.
I really like the sound of this album. The mix is superb. The guitars and drums mmm chef's kiss. It's very cohesive without being repetitive. I'd buy this one on vinyl! It'd be really cool for a collection. This album is just very listen throughable, which is making me strangely reconsider Illinois by Sufjan, which I probably should have given a 4.
This was so great. I am familiar with the first song, Ponta De Lanca Africano. The rest of the album is just as wonderful. I'm so glad this artist is included on this list. Great choice!
The next version of the 1001 albums book will only be Brazilian albums and Jorge Ben Jor will be on the cover
Fav Songs: Xica Da Silva, Taj Mahal, Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado, Hermes Trismestigo Escreveu Least Fav: O Filósofo 9.0/10
Well, this was a properly funky treat. Jorge Ben takes samba rhythms and adds a hefty dose of funk and soul drawing on African and American influences to produce something quite unique. If this album sounds familiar it’s because it influenced artists as diverse as David Byrne and Rod Stewart. I just wish this list had more albums like this!
Maybe the coolest thing I have heard, maybe ever? Why do we as humans listen to anything else? Mr. Jorge Ben Jor I was not aware of your game?! Catch me listening to SO much more Brazilian disco funk in the future this is so incredibly my jam. Never before has so much dance energy been infused into one album. Makes me want to learn Portuguese immediately. Especially enjoyed Ponta de Lança Africano. and O Filósofo. and Meus Fihlos, Meu Tesouro. and Taj Mahal. and Africa Brasil (Zumbi).
porra quer que eu fale o que?!?!!???!!! um dos maiores já feito por um dos maiores artistas? talvez um dos melhores álbuns já pensados e executados nesse brasilzão de meu deus, quiçá do mundo? eu fico emocionado só de lembrar que tive a oportunidade de ver o homem ao vivo ano passado e valeu cada segundo e digo mais: eu amo o tábua de esmeralda, foi um rito de passagem pessoal escutar ele pela primeira vez mas a migração pra guitarra que o jorge ben fez no africa brasil é um show a parte NÃO TEM NADA RUIM. só não tem. o que ele transpassa aqui é loucura total de vdd, pedrada master bruta pro max turbo
escuta taj mahal e não dança que nem maluco = tá morto já pode enterrar o jorge ben eh dos maiores artistas brasileiros, de longe. cabuloso demais. o que me deixa embasbacado eh que esse NEM EH O MELHOR DELE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! que absurdo pqp. um album animadaço, daquele jeitão, bem versátil só pedrada atras de pedrada. não tem jeito, eh dos melhores do MUNDO mesmo ((((infelizmente estou arrependido de nao ter ido ver ele ao vivo, mas vamo ter fé que ele vai fazer mais show.))))
Ran to Wikipedia to see if Rod Stewart got sued for lifting the melody of ‘Taj Mahal’ for ‘Do You Think I’m Sexy?’. Answer - yes, he did! Anyway - holy moly this was great! Sun has just come out today, I’m inside at work and trying desperately not to groove at my desk. Putting this into the regular rotation.
Loved it, and loved hearing something that was clearly so influential on the world and something I have never heard before!
Amazing.
OHH YEAHHH BabeY!!!!!! S. W. A. G!
This album is so much fun. I'd never heard of this guy before. Sofia said that he was pretty popular in Italy back in the day and they used to play his songs at the disco.
originally heard this record by receiving it as a record of the month thru Vinyl Me, Please (which used to be great but now is 100% scam). very cool to listen to this compared to Jorge Ben Jorge’s earlier recordings. the rhythm section throughout is so much fun, and the group/backing vocals elevate these tracks to another level. also did Rod Stewart rip off Taj Majal for Do Ya Think I’m Sexy???
This shit is so fun.
This isn’t a music genre I seek out; however, I loved this album and added to my list to buy.
Holy crap I loved this. What a brilliant album. Cannot fault it at all. This is definitely one of those albums that make me appreciate doing this list. There is absolutely zero chance I ever would’ve discovered this on my own. Top Track - Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro
Party vibes with a grungy twist I LOVE
BRILLIANT, BRILLIANT party album in a language I have zero familiarity with or knowledge of (not that it mattered!)
love love love brasilian musiccc
OMG I LOVE HIM NVM JORGEEEE AMO VC
Incredible vibe
Great and groovy!!
This is incredible. Blending samba and bossa nova with some psychedelic rock, soul and funk. It’s tons of fun, incredibly catchy and super fresh. Five stars.
One delish of an album, with one funky track after another. The music alone forces you to move, but it’s so good I wish I spoke the language too. One of Vinyl Me Please’s home run releases.
you know when you get a new favorite song and listen to it over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over until it sounds like mush i have to stop myself from listening to taj mahal. what a song. what a time to be alive. In all seriousness this is a club banger. I got a new obsession so there you go.
Album atemporal do Ben Jor, não tem como dar outra nota
Yes
Absolutely loved this, was tapping my foot throughout, will definitely check out more of his stuff
Très cool
9/10. Loved it! Super funky and some really interesting sounds
Album #3 January 14th 2026 Favorite Song: A História De Jorge This album was sung in Portuguese. While I couldn't understand it, it was a really upbeat and fun album to listen to. Most of the songs in this album are songs I would play at a party or during a car ride with the windows down just enjoying the moment. Since I couldn't understand the lyrics I don't believe there is much else that I can comment on. I give this album a 9/10.
Really liked this one Been listening to more of his stuff
Awesome. In the rotation
O álbum é incrível, foi muito bom ouvi-lo e tenho como o melhor da lista até então
This is so awesome. No qualifications on this, immediate favorite. Have to check out more of these 70s funk/post bossa nova bands from Brazil. Made me wish I knew Portuguese... Favorite Tracks: Ponto da Lanca Africano, O Filosofo, Taj Mahal, Camisa 10 de Gavea, Africa Brasil (zumbi)
1/12/26. Great discovery! Loved the fusion of Brazilian music and funk, works really well. First song grabbed me right away, and the rest of the tracks I enjoyed. Definitely want to learn a few of these on guitar.
What a great album. So energetic and full of life. I think it’s amazing when the power of music overthrows language. I didn’t know what Jorge was saying but I believed every word. My favourite was Taj Mahal, a song I would return to and have 2 times during this listen. Many additions of this album in my playlists now.
Proper Friday record. This was great fun, my smile was like building every song. 'Taj Mahal' is just a great pop tune all in. Very tight, lots of points of difference, feels way ahead of its time and influential on lots of other music I like.
thank you jorge ben for this vibe of an album
Didn’t understand the lyrics but the music spoke to me
Hell yes!! This is a fantabulous funky Brazilian dance party is what this is. And you can bet your ass that I’m boogie-ing mine to exhaustion. New favorite Hermes Trismegistus song, that’s for sure. (Don’t ask which it replaced.) That fkn cuica too. I love that thing. This is exactly what I hoped for in beginning this project: discover great new-to-me artists that I might otherwise have never encountered. Cannot wait to continue this man’s discography I def had 5stars of fun with this one, but I’m hesitant to pull the trigger on the full 5 overall. I love it, but is it truly great among its peers? I’m afraid I won’t know that without a lot more listening. I’mma have fkn fun doing it tho. Official rating is 4.5 stars. You know what? Let’s nudge that over to 4.51, which rounds nicely up to 5
Has a great energy to it
An amazing consolidation of Jorge's styles, a must listen.
Best album yet
Such cool sounds and soul and grove. I love it. There's something about the cuica and the whistles and all the Brazilian and African mixed percussion and rhythms. It just travels in such a wonderful way. The electric guitar sits so well in the ensemble too (I was really shocked to read that he played acoustic prior to this record). Definitely one of my favourite discoveries
vou ser muito cringe e dizer que é muito lindo ouvir um álbum que afirma seu amor pelo seu país e a cultura que você nasceu com, e esse álbum é definitivamente um deles! nao tenho nem as palavras para descrever o quão genuinamente delicioso ouvir esse álbum é. talvez é pela data que foi lançado mas é o tipo de músicas que sao tao boas que passam o sentimento que “é claro que essa musica existe. não faria sentido viver em um mundo onde taj mahal e hermes trismegisto escreveu nao existem”. enfim!!!!! eu amo muito!! 🫀
Pelo jeito meu presente de Natal veio atrasado esse ano (26/12)! Nessa era, em meados da década de 1970, Jorge Ben já havia alavancado o seu gênero-criação Samba Rock para a sua natural apoteose, e em discos como África Brasil a inevitável consequência dessa evolução se dá na expansão vertical, que é o que vemos aqui, com uma sonoridade voltada à síntese do funk americano e até com pitadas de prog e com canções abordando temáticas variadas e até mesmo esotéricas. O resultado é invariável: Um disco tremendamente divertido, engajante, desenrolado, profundo e inconfundivelmente brasileiro. O tipo de álbum que não é estranhado em nenhum contexto, seja em uma escuta intimista com fones de ouvido na sala de casa em um setup hi-fi audiófilo, seja em bailes de salão lotados, seja em confraternizações familiares ou amigaveis. Pau pra toda obra. Apenas toque Taj Mahal e veja todo mundo agitando como se algo no fundo de cada uma de nossas almas clamasse por aquele som. Eu adoro todo o gameta que esse disco engloba. Você pode ouvir faixas que parecem bobas, com temáticas futebolísticas por exemplo, e no fundo de tudo, há um arranjo surpreendentemente complexo, envolvendo um arsenal de diferentes instrumentos e de influências diversas, tudo marchando progressivamente na mesma direção de forma autoritária. Impossível não se envolver. Percussão afinadíssima, baixo implacável, e o trabalho incrível da guitarra elétrica de Ben Jor, sendo esse o primeiro envolvimento do artista com o instrumento. Fantástico. Alma puramente analógica, linda a paleta de cores aqui empenhada. Voa Jorge, Jorge voa. 5/5
Classic album from MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) and the godfather of Samba Rock. "Camisa 10 da Gávea" refers to Zico, the biggest player ever of Flamengo, the team Ben Jor support and the team with biggest numbers of supporters in Brazil. Gávea is a neighbour in Rio de Janeiro where Flamengo's headquarters is and the place where the team used for practice as well. Obviously, 10 is the number of the shirt (or jersey) that Zico used during his whole career, mostly playing for Flamengo. He also played in Italy and was the Kickstarter of Football in Japan alongside with another Brazilian players. And yes, I support Flamengo as well. Interesting fact: Jorge Ben changed his name to Jorge Ben Jor to avoid confusion with George Benson.
The first artist I hadn't heard of before! I liked it.
Um álbum muito divertido
Big fan of this! It's got a great grooove.
The history on this album is super interesting in how the artist avoided censorship while recording in a military dictatorship in Brazil. Also how they switched styles from acoustic to electric guitar for this album too. The afro-Brazilian sound was very well done. Listening to it without really knowing the title of the album or artist. I figured it was some sort of cultural fusion.
Fucking banger. I loved this album. Such good rhythms and grooves
Hit me with that funk. I love the analogue colour on this shit, the slightly detuned and tape saturated bass, gat, horns. The lyrics are smooth, songwriting lighthearted and fun. High energy, horn lines are golden. The wide high end hats, cymbals and shakers makes ya wanna get your fuckin maracas out. Exactly my wheelhouse in terms of sampling. If this shit wasn’t so popular I’d flip it in a heartbeat. The play of tension and release in the writing is a journey, done super well. Smack bang in the pocket for some of my favourite genres. Giving Curtis mayfield, funkadelic, parliament. Super refreshing to hear some music not just out of Britain or the US. Keep it coming. Excited to go through this cats catalogue.
Really good groove
Totalement ma came, un espèce de mélange rock et bossa nova, j'adore ce genre d'ambiances. Je pourrais réécouter sans souci 5/5
Wow, why have I never heard this before! I'd heard of Jorge Ben Jor, but somehow never got around to checking him out. Great Brazilian funk here, it's got me feeling like I *need* to listen to more from him and just more from Brazil in general. Probably my favorite first listen I've gotten from this site so far.
If these songs were in English and sang by Mick Jagger you would know every word. Bonified hits.
waouw. vilket språk va. vad sjunger han om? säkert något vackert!! något om en prinsessa och taj mahal. den enda som lyckas vissla i en låt på ett sätt som inte är cringe? och kanske cornelis
I've had a bunch of duds in a row and I get so excited when I see something non-anglo on here. This was such a fun vibe and the instrumentation was really fun (o filosofo), 5* Highlights: ponta de lanca africano, o filosofo, meu filhos meu tesoro, taj mahal (childhood flashbacks)
A very cool record that is both exciting and absorbing. I should increase my pallette and listen to more Tropicália.
Everything comes from Africa. Everything. Totally, totally, totally. American funk itself, American blues, everything... They came to Brazil and were gradually blended, at the time, with those Renaissance melodies of the priests, organs, that church music... How is that ever possible? That mix of African and Renaissance music. These wonderful things. And África Brasil was this tribute that I wanted to pay.
I wish this system had a half star rating option I think out of 10 rating is better this album whilst very very good and I did listen to it twice and really enjoyed the follow-on music that came up the incessant squeaking is a bit frustrating and giving it five stars anyway
Great
Jorge Ben Jor is a Brazilian popular musician who is well known for playing a style of samba that incorporates elements of soul, funk, and bossa nova. His broad appeal led to a successful career, affording him the leeway to further experiment with his sound. África Brasil was one of those experiments, ditching the acoustic guitar in favor of the electric guitar, while still offering a celebratory and historical tribute to Afro-Brazilian culture. I'll be honest, I was genuinely impressed by this record. The syncopated rhythms, the funky guitarwork, Ben's soulful delivery alongside the backing vocalists, all these elements come together with such a vibrant energy in these compositions. You know you got me hooked when these performances have me singing along, and I don't even speak Portuguese. Of course, it helps that the translated lyrics offer positive affirmations and solidarity between Africa and Brazil, to the point of highlighting historical figures, football, and tied ancestry. The only song that felt thematically different was the re-recording of "Taj Mahal" regarding the Indian structure, but even that was a genuine bop with the sped-up rhythm amidst the banging of the congas and timbales, with a vocal melody that Rod Stewart would end up using later. This is the kind of album that puts a smile on my face. África Brasil is the type of cultural celebration that transcends borders, and I'm glad to have enjoyed it.
Jorge Ben Joe is a legend. This LP feels and sounds great.
What a fun record! Full of life, vivacious. Lots of great horn section stuff , fun crowd vocals, infectious rhythms. Loved it!
Fantastic
I don't think I've ever connected to music with non-English lyrics like I have with this album. Just straight heat, so much funk and soul
So glad there’s some Jorge Ben on here. Honestly, too much Jorge Ben is never enough — he easily deserves half a dozen albums on this list. ‘África Brasil’ is one of his best and a totally worthy addition. I never have any idea what he’s singing about, and it doesn’t even matter. The music itself, combined with his impassioned singing, transcends language barriers and lyrics entirely. This one’s a stone-cold classic. Check out the rest of his catalogue — you won’t be disappointed.
A great listen, very groovy, eclectic and colourful. One of those records you could listen to over and over again.
Is this the perfect music for a chilly Thursday morning in the American midwest? Today it is. It only took 1/2 the album to decide that I wanted to live here forever. Maybe I'd find a reason to rate it lower if I understood the lyrics, but I'm not burdened with that problem today. I listened to it twice and then spent the rest of the morning in his discography. Brazilian music will always have a place in my heart, shut up and take my five stars.
Groovy!
One of the many reasons this generator is great - I’d have probably never have come across this on my own accord. Samba funk is so cool! Thoroughly enjoyable.
That’s right up there with my favorite non English album from the project. I can hear elements taken from this as recently as the White Lotus soundtrack. The groove is amazing, of course David Byrne would love this. Rating: 4.8
I cannot love this more. Love the energy, the vocals, the instruments. Will definitely listen to it many more times
It deserves. Too much information in a few tracks: the guitar, the beat, the lyrics. Some are outside of this world, but this is Jorge Ben's mark. Zumbi, Chica da Silva, two iconics figures related with black resistance, Brazilian history and his songs made then even more iconics. Too much beauty for just one album!
Excelente
Yeah I guess I like Brazilian music cause I swear this is like the third one I came across through this that has been solid to listen to. Very nice easy fun listening.
yes
Otima!
Top shelf stuff, this.
Now we're talking
Banger after banger after banger after banger after banger. Loved this album as it was very unique and unlike anything I’ve heard before TWU
never heard of this guy. couldn't understand the lyrics. makes no difference with music this brilliant. 5 in every way.
Is this a 5/5 album? Only time will tell I suppose, I never love love an album from first listen so I probably should be a bit more generous with my reviews. Usually I find that albums start out strong, and then get progressively less and less interesting - but that wasn't my experience with this one! For starters, I think Brazilian Portuguese is like one of the prettiest languages- so I suppose it already got a head start. But further, the albums starts out good and then becomes better. Such a fun and energetic listen! I screenshotted the following songs to mention as faves: Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro O Plebeu Xica de Silva But I likely liked others just as much. Not sure if I would put any of the songs in a playlist? But certainly will remember the album for the right occasion.
Muito swing
A good full tasty treat
The best of many worlds.
gozei
Probably the first Tropicalia record I heard that really grabbed me. This record is so catchy and fun, it’s hard not to love it. The call and response part of “Ponta De Lanca Africana” is amazing, because you can actually sing along with it even if you don’t speak Portuguese. Can’t recommend this enough.
Listens: 3 Standout tracks: Meus Filhos Meu Tesouro, Xica Da Silva This album is excellent. I seem to have a thing for "world" music, where I can't understand the lyrics because I don't speak the language. Perhaps it allows me to really focus on the music itself. The songs a varied, unique, exciting and catchy. Its crazy to me that this came out in 1976. It's so fresh!
Fell in love with this album as soon as the first song started, 'cause you're really just thrown right into the madness here. This is easily the best Samba record on this list so far. It's all so lively, so catchy, so groovy, and so infectious. And I really want to emphasize the "lively" part, because there is so much life, so many little planets and musical organisms existing within this record - it's like the musical Amazon. Be it the various bluesier elements, the funky and jazzy musical interludes, the addictive use of the cuica (a usually very hit-or-miss instrument for me), the way the backing vocals are just as essential as Jorge's lead vocals, or those infectious as-all-hell lead melodies. 'A Historia De Jorge' is perhaps one song that perfectly captures all I love about this album; it just goes in so many directions that it's honestly ridiculous - with so many instruments, yet it's never overwhelming. Something this album does really well is knowing exactly when to pull away the vocals to let those delicious conga-drum-based grooves ride out, if only for a little bit, before bringing everything back - it happens several times on this album, and it's always super effective. And don't get me started on 'Taj Mahal', maybe the best song I've heard recently, I'm in love with it (especially a live performance I found of it on YouTube). There isn't a dull moment on this album, just the best 40-minute party you could imagine - gotta get around to checking out more Jorge Ben ASAP.
Fantastic!
Great album - so much fun to dance to
fantastic
Banger, especially the first song
Love the Brazilian, African, and Caribbean rhythms!
What an excellent find! I may not know the words, but the performances from everyone more than make up for it.
BEST SONGS: - Taj Mahal - Xica Da Silva
Good sound. Great beats. I like th music. The words sound good too though I don't understand it. Lol. I like it.
Great album
Just Jorge
Another nice discovery for me. I'd heard of Jorge Ben before - "Oba, Là Vem Ela" on an old Dancefloor Jazz compilation I have as well as "Mas que nada" - but this was new. I was a sceptical at first, as the ~World Music~ inclusions are often just the most easily digestible tokens but this is definitely an AYMHBYD and it seriously slaps! If I've ever heard something in here so far to use that word with, it's this one and I don't know if it makes sense but here it is: 𝘬𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘥𝘰𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤. Special mention: that cuíca rhythm/lick starting to play in "Xica da Silva" - made me smile - and how the phased strings in "A Históira de Jorge" sent me onto a sidequest to find out what they remind me of. Great album.
Wow, niet verwacht Jorge Ben op deze lijst te zien. Vijf sterren uiteraard, zelfs als dit niet eens mijn favoriete plaat van hem is.
Good
<3
Yo solid world music, love this
Love it. Would buy.
“Africa Brasil” by Jorge Ben Jor (1976) Never heard this album nor this artist. But i have to say, I loved it. I'm not sure what i was expecting but I loved the rhythms and the samba feel to the music. I'll be adding this to my saved albums
9,25/10
I dig this. Lots of good energy. Strong vibes. It's not hard to appreciate this, even without speaking the same language
It's the right kind of rhythmically interesting, energetic, fun type of music I love and can't get enough of, brazilian music was on another level huh.
Totally my jam
Funky music reminiscent of Herby Hancock. The vocals are all in Portuguese, but the singer is strong and the lyrics are rhythmic. Overall a really enjoyable listen
albums with brasil in the title are guaranteed to be good...(see: brasilian skies)
ja lekker energiek en zomers, spotify algoritme gaat er goed op. zeker vandaag met 30 graden
Fun album. Went on a tangent after it into Brazilian pop
What a fun album this was. The type of shit I wanted to do this project for. Fun, exciting, important history, and something I never would have listened to. More of this and less boring ass brit pop and 12 records from the same American groups please. 9/10
This album was so fun, I was sad when it ended. So I played it again.
World music, bossa nova, first track must have been the original or the lyrics are a chant. I’ve heard it on Soulfly’s self titled and fell I love then. Umbabarumba. Maybe it is a chant, I don’t know. The steady thumping keeps the pace at a beautiful tempo. Definitely worth checking out his discography.
An album in which I learn about an instrument of which I was previously unaware (e.g. the cuica) is a five star album.
Great beats
Absolutely loved this!!
This album is killer. Mix of Brazilian Samba and African Funk. The grooves are infectious. Loved every second of this album. Added bonus, hearing an actual cuíca (as opposed to the one or two samples we hear in modern music). 5 stars.
Great music
hello samba
Listen hørte mig sige "jeg er ikke et samba-head" for et par dage siden og kommer for at hævne sig og gøre mig til en hykler. Fuck det her var fedt. Nok på top 5 bedste fund i forbindelse med det her projekt.
Should be more stuff like this on the list instead of the onslaught of 70s rock bands. Brilliant stuff
One of the 1001 album unicorns - 1st time listen, 5 star review. At times a post-Tropicalia sound but often giving way to a more Fela like groove.
This was PHENOMENAL. So funky, so playful, and so so good. How could I frown listening to this?
Life changing
Where has this been all my life
Great summer dancing music or background kitchen music
This is great. Albums like this are exactly why I started this journey. I'm a fan of this album for life now, and I've never heard of it or jorge Ben Jor before.
A miscelânia desse material é sensacional!
amazing!!! all songs were a little different but same vibe, love the brazilian feel favs: taj mahal, ponta de lança africano least fav: i acc dk?? i like them all
Tropicalia is an incredible genre of music from Brazil, driven by resistance to a fascist regime during the late 60’s and into the 70’s. I discovered this incredible genre through a Tropicalia compilation from 2006 which featured Jorge Ben and many others who also bring the intensity and passion to the cause. Great rhythms, vocals and pop hooks with a message that still sound urgent. This album is an easy win for the ears.
Wow, really loved this even if I didn't understand a word. Great rhythm, great harmonies, very very groovy
What an absolute treat this was!
Fantastic African-influenced Brazilian funk!
Not something I would typically listen to but I loved this.
I don't know what he's saying, or why this is considered an album worth hearing. But, I sure am glad I heard it. I enjoyed every second of this, and I was surprised that it was over already when it finished. Will definitely be going back for more.
Despite not understanding a word, it's impossible not to groove to this. Also, the cuica is now a conteder for my favorite instrument alongside cowbells.
This album kept growing on me as I listened. It is fantastic!
The blend of blues and samba is perfectly done, and his singing is fantastic. If any album deserves five stars it's definitely this one.
wow. first brazilian music and what a treat. funky, full of life and great music to vibe or work to
Pure magic, I loved it
i really enjoyed this album tbh! really no words to say i just really was vibing with it today.
Mega przyjemna płyta, odmiana po tych wszystkich ciężkich gitarowych brzmienianiach. Do potańczenia i odstresowania się. Jak letni wietrzyk. Nie było na niej złej piosenki. 9/10
Never heard this until now.
Made me realise I should always drink my morning coffee with some Brazilian music in the background
this was a great surprise
Voa Jorge Voa
This is the first “world music” (maybe not really world music - still, the first non-English) album that this generator gives me. Whether they are good or not, I love the inclusion of these albums on this site, because otherwise I probably would have never found them and listened to them. Something about broadening musical horizons. With my limited knowledge of Spanish I tried to deconstruct and understand some of the lyrics, but the truth is that they are not necessary to enjoy this album. The music is super funky and immediately catchy: it feels as though you are in the middle of a carnival parade in Rio de Janeiro. Listening to this on one of the first truly warm and sunny days here makes this even more enjoyable. All in all, very pleasantly surprised!
Holy cow this is what this list is good, I would have never heard this otherwise! The opening track is surely one I've heard before though I can't place where, but it is fully outstanding and I've added it to my main playlist. The rest ranges from nearly as great to maybe, I don't want to say cheesy, but a little, such as the disco of Taj Mahal, but it was interesting to hear the source material for Do ya think I'm sexy? I listened to twice on my day, and I'll be coming back in. Superior!
9/10 Phenomenal, no filler all killer, the shortest 41 minutes of my life. Jorge Ben Jor is an artist I’ve known about and have been anticipating for a while, but I wasn’t expecting a completely an album from 1976 that sounds incredibly fresh today, with the African and Brazilian influences perfectly meshing together in infectious Rock and Funk rhythms. It’s rich, it’s groovy, it’s concise, I really do think 41 minutes was not enough for this, it’s a great source of Vitamin D. Glep please come to Brazil
Loved eu 🐈👵🏻
I will be keeping this man on in the background for everything, this is the exact energy I want in my life
What a masterpiece, amazing
Really nice, didn't sound like the 70's
banger! this is a great album that lives up to its name. incredible cumbia/afrobeat vibes throughout, culminating with jorge's impassioned vocals on the closing and title track. this one might be going on my cd shelf
Already reviewed this one on 10th July 2024: "Phenomenal album, great fusion of funk and notes of jazz. Album flowed so well I hardly noticed when the songs changed. Will definitely be listening to again. Taj Mahal was a standout track" Do I have anything to add after my 3rd listen? No. This album fucking rocks.
One I had actually listened to quite a while ago but never got around to writing a review for it, I definitely can’t complain coming back to this one for a revisit before writing some thoughts. While I can’t exactly comment on its lyricism or any other aspects that the cultural divide bars me from, but I can absolutely vouch for just how groovy this album is from head to toe. Seriously I would only say there was only one song on here that stood out to me as not being that great (funny enough it was sat between my two favourites on the album Taj Mahal and A Historia De Jorge so it really stood out). An awesome album either for active or background listening which demonstrates just how universal an enjoyable song can be
It's so alive. There is so much great Brazilian music.
I knew this was going to be interesting, but this is fantastic and surprising. Rad, funky, soulful, and still totally relevant. It’s not often you hear a song about hermetic philosophers. Loving every minute of this record.
lots of squeaky sounds—which somehow works. vocals are great; modulates between crooning romanticism, strained intensity, nonchalant cool, and infectious joy with impressive fluidity. feels like i'm missing out on some semi-essential components through language barrier on the songs designed to showcase lyrics. instrumentation is persistently lively—unleashing a barrage of funky horns, electric guitars, and varied percussion (of course, also unidentifiable "squeaky sounds"). 'taj mahal' is bafflingly good.
so good not a single dull moment, but also I dont know a single brazilian funk song I didnt like
This guy has actually mastered groove and funk holy shet. Completely bonkers. Only downside is that the pifano (flute-like thing) can get a bit annoying for me, but that’s only if you focus on it. Oh my the guitars are too funky. This may be a 5 for me w a couple more listens.
AWESOME!!! i looooved that. i like the funk elements here a lot and they mixed really well with the other brazilian style of his music
AMAZING
Loved it
I liked it - energetic
Very different than what I was expecting. Brash, loud, smooth, amazing. Hearing Brazilian Portuguese sung like that was a wonderful difference than what I'm used to hearing. It won't go on normal rotation, but I'm glad I heard it.
Realmente não tem como não dar 5 para esse álbum. Dá para ver que Jorge Ben tá se divertindo nessas músicas, e elas falam tanto sobre o Brasil. Gostei muito de Ponta de lança africano, Hermes Trismegisto escreveu, Meus filhos, meu tesouro, Taj Mahal, Xica da Silva, Camisa 10 da Gávea e África Brasil (Zumbi). Praticamente todo o álbum.
BRASIL SIL SIL!!! Não tem como não dar 5 pra voz marcante do Jorge, para a guitarra com groove em toda música, para cada som de cuíca ao fundo, para cada letra com sacada interessantíssima que só o brasileiro (e, principalmente, o Jorge) é capaz de fazer. A mistura de guitarra com samba é lindíssima demais e essa mistura é TÃO brasileira que não tem como não ficar orgulhosa. Jorge Ben, você é nosso tesouro nacional!!!!!! obs: Taj Mahal na versão do Africa Brasil é mil vezes mais forte
The squeaky straw sound is everything and the cherry on this beautiful work.
мне супер понравилось
4.7/5
These are the type of albums I love getting, a banger of an album from an artist I've never heard of in a genre I don't know much about.
sweaty, eclectic, rocks out and soothes the soul, really just Pure Pleasure kind of beyond articulation for me...except to sheepishly note that this seems to be at the confluence of a bunch of different cultural and musical ideas (wow i wonder what gave it away maybe it was the title), which makes me once again think that the best way to look at conventions is as a language rather than a rulebook. some absolutely RIDICULOUS melodywriting on here only augmented by how they are presented, repeated, emphasized.,..backing vocals are so so good...
Blown away by this. Another five star album by someone I didn’t know before
Another one of those world albums that make sitting through garbage choices worth it. This was a nice blend of Afro Brazilian and funk music. That first track hits, and you are on a musical adventure of grooves and rhythms for the next 40 minutes.
Absolutely incredible
Incredible album. A must listen.
Only one of the best albums of Brazilian Popular Music. Essential. Majestically masterful. And most of all: Timeless!
Is this the original Taj Mahal????? If so this gets a 5 for that alone. IT IS! TAJ MAHAAAAAAAL TAJIMAHAL! I actually think it's been done better by Takanaka but still this is a great version. Rest of the album is good.
This is a really great album that just flies by. I don't understand the lyrics, but who cares? It's good music.
I've never heard of Jorge Ben Jor before, and I'm very familiar with Brazilian music, so I'm not incredibly sure what to expect on this album. I've had a tough time rating albums from some of the more 'niche' genres like samba; I think a lot of the non-traditional albums that I've reviewed so far have been nice enough to listen to, but I don't really have a way to place them, other than saying 'that was nice to listen to, and really different.' Maybe this will be the 'world music' album that finally lands with me! Well, that that last sentence of my introduction turned out to be quite prophetic, because I really enjoyed this album. I think that I've gotten enough exposure to African and Brazilian music from this project, that I was able to have a better understanding of how this album blended different musical elements. I really loved the varied percussion on this album, especially the cucia. I don't think I'd ever heard of a cucia until today, but I'm sure I've heard one played before. The use of funk elements to enhance the beats made this album really fun to listen to, and I found myself dancing along to this album while I listened to it. The guitar playing was great, and even though I didn't understand the lyrics, I really liked the vocals as well. As far as my favorite songs go, I'd have to choose "O Filósofo," "O Plebeu," and "Taj Mahal." Granted, I thought the whole album was really great. The songs were varied in sound, but all very much rooted in the same unique style. This album was really great, and I'd be quick to listen to it again.
This album is so vibey! You can’t help but bop your head and sing along from the first track. Would listen again. :)
happy to report one of my earliest exposures to mpb still goes crazy 10/10
a pleasant surprise! my experience with Brazilian music is pretty limited outside of American jazz's flirtations with bossa nova. like any good RYMer, Clube da Esquina is one of my favorite albums, and I'm already a fan of one of Ben's earlier records, Fôrça bruta. the sound of the classical guitar is integral to a lot of this music, so I was pretty taken aback by how hard this album rocks! there's hardly any acoustic guitars to be found here, although there's still plenty of great Brazilian percussion, particularly a prominent cuica! we've also got great horn and string arrangements, plus an incredible section of backup singers. the rhythm section also deserves a ton of props! I can't really speak to any of the lyrical subject matter here with any authority, but Ben's singing across all these songs is full of infectious, authoritative energy. he could be reading the phone book for all I know, but that hardly matters to me! I'll definitely be coming back to this album more than a few times. strong 9/10.
This is the type of album that anyone with a set of ears can absolutely groove out to, even with the Brazilian language barrier. Solid 5 Stars.
That’s a pretty damn good 5. I mean, this album just has charisma in spades, language barrier be damned. It does exactly what it sets out to do – mix Brazilian standards driven by a bit of samba with influences from American pop, R&B, and a bit of Afrobeat in there too. It blends itself together beautifully, on both the slower tracks and the more upbeat ones. I think it might be impossible to listen to this whole album and not get up and move around at least once – whether it’s in the stellar guitar work, the super fun synth and production tricks, the bombastic brass sections, or even just the deeply impressive percussion, there is at least one aspect of this album that’s easy to just vibe to, and that’s not even mentioning his vocal work. I think his vocals really are understated and perhaps underrated here; even though these instrumentals are great, it feels like there’s a distinct reason for this album to not have an instrumental track on it. Jorge Ben Jor’s vocals have a really good range to them, and the vocal tone of the track honestly makes or breaks the energy at times – I think this is best exemplified in “O Filosofo”, which was the only track that didn’t quite click for me, and it’s partially because his vocals don’t feel fully engaged with the song itself. On the flipside of that, when he gets into a deeply gritty tone on the last track, Africa Brasil, it evokes those moments of true zen and passion from a performer that feel rarely captured on albums or even on tape – Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” comes to mind, both in the album cut and that famous GRAMMYs performance. Ultimately, this is just fun. It’s 40 minutes that zoom by, but it kept me really attentive to every little detail – what’s here is so deep and rich in its soundscape that it’s impossible to ignore, and frankly worth analyzing to really distill funk in such a pure form. It’s very rare to get international albums on the list, but they’ve usually been pretty damn good (save for that shit show “Haut de gamme”) – this sits right behind Clube Da Esquina as my second favorite international one we’ve gotten so far. It’s a super easy 5 for me. Hell, just give us another Brazilian album. It can’t hurt at this point.
Utter perfection. Such a brilliant combo of MPB and funky proto-disco. Every track is a standout, and the minute it ends, I just want to start it again.
Fun
I loved this! Favorite new album yet.
U jbt otvorim album, prva pjesma mi je već spremljena u liked songs. Kreće super, Africa Brasil, funk, ajmo rokanje Slušam dok radim, glava mi se cima stalno. Top picks su mi prva pjesma, xica de Silva, Cavaliero do cavalo imaculado Pojma nemam o čemu pjeva, ali fino vozi. Tipa zbog ovakvog albuma sam se odlučio na pothvat slušanja svih ovih albuma
don't tell him this cause he's Christian and might find it offensive, but every day i wake up and thank God for Jorge Ben. his song are on point, his guitar is on point, the energy and overall vibes are on point. whenever he sings a vocal line and the backup singers respond in turn, my brain does flips like a trained dog. high effort, high energy, high point. no skips. essential.
Pretty cool stuff!
Brutal
As someone who is far from an expert in Brazilian music, I can confidently say that Africa Brasil by Jorge Ben Jor is utterly captivating even without any prior knowledge. This album pulses with the spirit of Brazil—imagine lounging with a Piña Colada, surrounded by the vibrant energy of famous Copacabana Beach and the rhythmic sounds of people playing futebol, all while the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue watches over you. From the first track, the fun, high-tempo music draws you in. Ben Jor masterfully blends expert musicianship with an irresistible mix of Western influences and African and local melodies. Songs like "País Tropical" celebrate Brazil's lush landscapes and vibrant culture, while "Menina Mulher da Pele Preta" captures the romance and allure of love set against infectious rhythms. "Oba, Oba, Oba," with its upbeat tempo, is impossible to resist, embodying the spirit of Brazil and inviting everyone to join the celebration. Then there's "Taj Mahal," which features a melody so catchy that Rod Stewart "borrowed" it for his own hit. This captivating fusion of samba and funk showcases Ben Jor’s talent for crafting music that’s sophisticated yet accessible. Africa Brasil is an invitation to experience Brazil's vibrant life, capturing the essence of a country where music flows through the streets. I have no idea what exactly he is saying, but with catchy hooks, infectious rhythms, and lively beats, the music evokes instant joy while sweeping you off your feet. • Did I own this release? No • Does this release belong on the list? Yes • Would this release make my personal list? I wasn't familiar with it before, but I really enjoyed it. I need to do a deep dive into Brazilian music in the '70s first. • Will I be listening to it again? For sure!
Such a good album, and totally unexpected. Really groovy - if it doesn't get you tapping your toes it probably means that you have early stage leprosy.
My GOD what a banger. Unfortunately the songs aren't all available on spotify, atleast in my country. Def will listen again. This is why I love 1001 Albums. Easily learn about new stuff, you would've never found else.
Finally an album I would rate six stars if I could. This is what I listen to all of these albums for, completely bizarre and enjoyable music that I would've never run into otherwise. A sixties jazzy/funky brazilian singer talking about Hermes Trismegistus? Sign me up!
Love it, what a find, and the Rod Stewart rip off in Taj Mahal is superb!
notes
Jorge Ben Jor é um dos maiores artistas do mundo todo. Simplesmente perfeito!!!!! Esse álbum é um presente para a cultura brasileira. A história do negro no Brasil e tudo que isso representa.
5 estrelas
sexy, funny and eternally cool.
It's like if Herbie Hancock got waylaid in Brazil for a little while. A song like "Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado" is akin to injecting caffeine straight into your veins: it just gets you moving. It's just fucking cool, and it's really unlike anything I've heard before, a beautiful blend of funk, afrobeat, and samba. Late in this list, it's nice to see that it can still completely catch me off-guard. Favorite tracks: "Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado", "Taj Mahal"
Beautiful album, already had it but never realized how much of a gem it is
Love Brazilian music. Never really given Jorge Ben Jor a chance though. Always been more of a Gilberto Gil fan. (Side note check out his self titled 1968 album, it should be on this list damn it!) But this album makes me wish I’d have checked his stuff out before! It’s great, funky fun, great hooks, instrumentation and percussion that adds that unmistakable Brazilian fun. Wonderful!
África Brasil - Jorge Ben (1976) Jorge Ben totalmente elétrico. África Brasil é o primeiro álbum de Jorge Ben com a incorporação total de guitarras elétricas, somada com a aglutinação da música afro-brasileira e a black music americana, resultando em algo único, que pode tocar tanto em estádios quanto no carnaval de rua. Conta com três regravações de álbuns antigos em versões “modernizadas”, como "A Princesa e o Plebeu" do Sacudin Ben Samba, aqui chamada só de O Plebeu, "Taj Mahal" do Ben e "Zumbi" do A Tábua de Esmeralda, aqui chamada de Africa Brasil (Zumbi). As três primeiras canções são irretocáveis (Ponta de Lança Africano, Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu e O Filósofo), simplesmente sintetizam a essência do álbum e ditam o tom que se seguirá adianta, há um pequeno momento de baixa na música “Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro”, que conta com uma letra datada e esquisita para os tempos atuais. Mas o momento de relativa baixa já é substituído por mais um grande momento com as regravações de “O Plebeu” e “Taj Mahal”, voltando ao ensejo anterior, e a música “Xica da Silva” com um instrumental hipnotizante e contando uma história que só o Brasil pode propiciar. Seguindo para o final, temos as divertidas músicas “A História De Jorge” e “Camisa 10 Da Gávea”, mas que não estão no nível das outras, mas que já é recuperado na música “Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado” frenética e psicodélica. O disco é encerrado com chave de ouro pela regravação África Brasil (Zumbi), que sintetiza a temática que dá nome ao projeto com maestria, que talvez só Jorge Ben seja capaz. Melhores músicas: Ponta de Lança Africano, Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu, O Filósofo, Xica da Silva, África Brasil (Zumbi). Piores músicas: 4.75/5
This probably the first one where I (i) never heard of artist let along the album and (ii) absolutely LOVED it. Couldn't understand a lick of it. But didn't need to. The 70's funk vibe mixed with Brazil was excellent. Will be listening to this one again.
nutting
This slaps.
I don’t know what this man was saying but I was jammin’! Live the fusion of samba, funk, and soul. Will listen again.
I always appreciate the world music we get here because it is always new to me. Sometimes the comments rag on something for not being representative or not the best to offer from an artist, but I still find myself enjoying much of the world music in this list. Jorge Ben Jor is no exception and this album is incredibly strong. More traditional sounds mixed with Brazillian music leads to a great listen. I particularly liked O Plebeu, such a happy sounding song (I dont speak Portuguese, so hopefully it actually is). My other standouts are Taj Mahal and Cavaleiro do Cavalo Imaculado.
Nobody knows what it means (sorry Brazil) but it’s provocative, it gets the people going.
Brazilian funk of the highest order. Only a deranged, criminal brain could give this less than a perfect score
Brilliant
Love the combo of Brazilian music and funk
Incredibly fun and exciting! The mix of Brazilian and African sounds with a funky soul really works.
Excellent! Funky. Catchy. Cool. Daydreaming of going to jazz clubs in Brazil. Super into it.
This list only scratches the surface of the brilliance of Brazilian music, but it’s great to see Jorge Ben featured here. One of the greatest songwriters of all time!
I’m so glad I discovered this album. Brazilian funk with African influences – what more can you ask for? This album is super groovy and catchy. One element I really like is how the funk adds playful and quirky vibes to some of the tracks.
Samba brasileña muy animada. Venga, le pongo un 5.
Phenomenal album, great fusion of funk and notes of jazz. Album flowed so well I hardly noticed when the songs changed. Will definitely be listening to again Taj Mahal was a standout track
This is like crack cocaine being injected straight into my ear. Insanely good. An incredible gem like this, which I would never seek out on my own, is what makes trudging through the hundreds of "old British guy crooning"-entries on this list all worth it. First time I've noticed the cuica being used outside of MIDI music. Love that goofy instrument. Five outta five.
jiving in the library to be utterly honest
Absolutely pleasant and exotic. I loved that funky style and that kind of jungle sounds. This album is a beauty.
This was awesome. More of this please.
Holy moly. Better yet...santo deus. I have hit a few random points on Jorge Ben timeline but for some reason never made it here. I'm a little slack jawed. It's just so creative. It's like a wilder Esquivel with the kitsch turned down. Weird, expressively weird with undercurrents of pop, traditional samba and latin jazz. Excellent musicianship. And get up and dance funky. I have a mild curiosity for the lyrics but why mess with perfection. What an absolute great ride.
Fun, funny, groovy and inventive! This album didn’t miss with me. I loved the varied timing, the passion and the creative vocalization’s. I plan on cooking to this many times in the future!
Sonically intoxicating.
Very snazzy
oh my god? talk about an album that i never would have been exposed to otherwise that i was absolutely blown away by. every second of this is a fabulously funky fusion of funk and brazilian music. there is not a bad moment on here, it is just dripping in sweat in the best kind of way the entire length of the album. i will definitely return to this one! really awesome stuff.
These Brazilians know wtf they're doing
I'd just found out about this dude a couple months ago and thought he was the coolest ever and it's great to see he has more albums that go as hard as the one I found (none of these songs hold a candle to Oba, La Vem Ela though)
Deep down, I’m just a girl who loves to dance, so I tend to fall fast and easy for anything with a groove: funk, house, disco, pop, and apparently samba. On África Brasil, Jorge Ben Jor 1000% delivers a dance-party record. This has it all – casual bum-shakers to vibe along to next to the beach bonfire, chaotic cuts that force everyone on the floor, slow jams that beg you to hold a lover close, and everything in between. But this record is so much more than just dance grooves. It’s a party record with depth. Musical depth, for sure; this is some of the tightest, most technical shit I could imagine creating that still has pop appeal. But also, it has socio-political depth, using its points of reference, esoteric lyrics, and globalism to say something about the state of the world, about connected influence across continents and oceans, about black people everywhere. And by doing all that through winks and nudges, what could be seen through a translator as “simplistic” lyrics actually reveals subversive depth. And all over funky ass grooves that make you want to shake your ass! Literally obsessed. Really hitting me at a perfect time in my life, especially during the summer. The perfect record to put on at 2am to keep the party going. I won’t be surprised if this ends up toward the top of my overall ranking by the end of this challenge.
Great album, lovely instrumentation. No idea what he's singing but it sounds nice.
Has a cooler record ever been made? This is just about note perfect, with very well textured funk and powerful, controlled grooves, with occasional touches of saudade adding dimensionality. It's fun and rollicking and happy-making throughout. The energy means it's scarcely aged a day and sounds way more recent than '70s.
Now this is why I'm into this 1001 game. I was familiar with a couple tracks off this but never gave the full album a full spin and now that I have I'm hooked! The first track is on some comp I have and always stood out. Taj Mahal I knew because Rod Stewart stole the vocal melody for "Do You Think I'm Sexy". 5/5 on first spin, can't wait to listen again.
This was awesome, end of story.
Contrary to popular belief, I cannot speak Portuguese. However, the vibes this album brought were sensational, I didn't need to understand it to love it.
It was an entertaining album to listen to, it really transports you to Brazil, and of course it does it because Jorge is one of the most important artists in the country mentioned (one in the top 5, at least) The music is great, if you liked “Mas que nada" (song by the same artist, a very recognized hit) and if you want to get closer to Brazil’s music and culture you are going to love this artist's music in general. Totally recommended.
If the translated lyrics are even half as good as the instrumentation, this album is what the youths would call a banGer
loved it, was a great change of pace and a dip back into "Brasillia"
Love this. Would listen to it again and again
This album was super groovy, I thought it was fantastic.
This is a great album for driving along the Mass Turnpike in the rain. Mellow but not sleepy. Turned into a surprised conversation about musical plagiarism once Taj Mahal came on.
Brazilian music makes me so proud of my country. Jorge Ben is a master and it shows. This album is more of a 4.5 for me, but that it’s only because I know his true masterpiece is A Tábua da Esmeralda. Also, it’s pretty fun seeing many other reviewers finding out that Rod Stewart “borrowed” way too much from Taj Mahal.
Energetic. Amazing. Will listen to his entire discography.
Could not help but tap my toe and dance along to this whole album. A funky mix of disco meets Latin music. I loved it.
I love this album. It's a delight!
It’s like spending a sunny sunday by the beach at Rio de Janeiro seeing people bathing, playing beach socced and listening to music. This album has musics which are played even today at brazilian parties. A perfect match among samba, rhythm and swing.
Un álbum entretenido de oír. Está lleno de vida, tiene un funky increíble y cargado de muy buena vibra. También las letras de las canciones son buenas, algunas divertidas y otras basadas en hechos reales. Con este álbum puedes viajar a Brasil desde el sofá de tu casa. Muy buen álbum. Al terminar de oírlos quedas contagiado de buena vibra.
Muito bom em. Hitmaker de primeira
Unexpectedly really enjoyed this, and I was surprised when I heard 'Da ya think i'm sexy'.
Amazing
Danced for the entire album! Still dancing after listening to it again... It brings me good vibes and mood that's a full 5/5
Dope.
rhythm is insane smooth
Now, THIS is why I’m doing the challenge! So, so good from 5 seconds into the first cut. So diverse and lush with the arrangements and genre touches. I have no idea what the subject matter is covering throughout since I don’t speak Spanish but he could be singing about killing puppies and I’d still play it, the music is so good.
So sad this was not on Apple Music, this is my favorite new album yet! So fun, really songs you can shake you ass too 😂
Never heard this before but really enjoyed it. Super keen on listening to more of it
Favourite song - Taj Mahal
So much energy, love the way this music sounds
Love the groove of this album
This is why I listen everyday. Never heard of this album and I love it.
As a disclaimer, I have virtually no knowledge of Brazilian Portuguese. If I did, the lyrics of Ben Jor's songs might have more impact. That said, this LP is so funky that even without an understanding of the vocal contextuality I can certainly appreciate it. For 1976 this record is every bit as funky as James Brown or Bootsy Collins. Traditional Brazilian sounds combine with electric guitar and wah-wah to create grooves that are impossible to resist. Even Rod Stewart had to rip this record off. Top marks.
This was a fun time. I didn’t understand a word they were saying, but the music was awesome so does it really matter? The energy through out is relentless and keeps you going till the end. The slower paced songs are great too. The instrumentation is amazing. Good album!
After my first listen I went back a couple times to listen to specific tracks and just wound up listening to the whole album again. Has this element of infectious fun that makes it hard not to move.
funk samba album theres literally no way i wasnt gonna think this fucks. also mei likes this album so its a little extra nice to get to listen <3
This was my first dive into Samba-rock so I took some time listening to a few others albums in the genre before rating. Each time returning, I found myself completely refreshed, as though it was a bright, shining first listen. The sound is such a fresh take on funk samba-rock for the time, and it wasn't even the first for it's time. That's just Jorge Ben!
Loved this. Also love discovering where something's been sampled from like sith Taj Mahal. I cooked a stew to it and I think it helped make it tasty. Really enjoyed having it on.
More MPB, more World. 5/5
I love Jorge. He has this weird voice that makes you feel he’s really not a singer. Maybe, I think that because of some wikipedia article I read. Anyway, great album.
Love it! Brazilian
Listen to it riding my bike to and from work coincidentally through little Portugal / little Brazil in Toronto in the middle of winter. I got a lot of smiles from people walking on the sidewalk as I rode bye on the very loud speaker that I attached to my bike. Going to keep this one and maybe check out some of his other stuff but this will definitely be a summer bike ride album.
Did not expect to meet any more Tropicalia albums in this list, but here we go! Absolutely Jorgeous!
Years after Tropicália's brutally unceremonious end, Jorge Ben Jor turns in the finest album of his career. Marrying his ancestry with the transformative buzzsaw power of the radical movements abroad, África Brasil grooves, grinds, and grounds down, ultimately achieving its statement in dizzying disorientation and sheer brilliance.
No expectations, fantastic album. Groovy, funky, well made, and a lot of fun.
There is so much to love about this album. Usually I am quite lyrics driven and I do love clever wordplay. But if a song catches me, whatever language it’s in, then I’m all in. I can hear so many influences and also bands he obviously influenced. His voice has such a warm, innocent quality. The songs are so hypnotic and inviting and catchy, the words initially don’t matter. However, once I listened to this twice interjecting with La La Las up what the songs were about, and was fully sucked in. I loved this with abandon.
Fantastic. Had never heard of this before and I loved every second. Great grooves. I loved his singing. A blast from start to finish.
Awesome! Why didn't I know about this album when I was a kid? Great rhythms and vocals.
This is what I keep coming back for
Back-to-back bops on this one. I was having a boogie while cleaning, loved it from start to finish. Portugese is such a sexy language.
Another level of vibray
oh wow!
"África Brasil" is a masterclass in rhythm and performance, with secretive but long-lasting influence that can still be felt today. Even for any listeners wary of any language barrier with music, Jorge Ben Jor makes music that anybody can immediately understand and groove along with.
Excellent tunes with a ton of replay-ability. Great for warm weather and pool parties.