Africa Brasil

Hatade i början men blev nice

nice vibe, not a huge fan of the french but overall catchy

Fun

Great opener. Good vibes.

Brilliant fusion of bossa nova and more traditional western music

This is a super cool record. Favourite tracks: Ponta De Lança Africano, O Plebeu, Cavaleiro Do Cavalo Imaculado, África Brasil (Zumbi). Tag Mahal totally has the same melody line as Rod Stewart's Da Ya Think I'm Sexy? I'm not the first person to notice this, of course. Naughty Rod.

Album 150 of 1001 Jorge Ben - Africa Brasil Rating : 4 / 5 Good funk. Although I didn't understand a word that was said, the music was awesome. This is one that wouldn't usually come to your attention. Recommended.

Vibes

Enjoyable

Solid album. I really enjoy the percussion.

Gostoso! Great example of what Brazilian music was during the 70s.

Dare you to listen to this and not 💃

Groooooooves

One of the funkiest albums I’ve ever heard Favourite tracks: Ponta de Lanca Africano, O Filósofo, Taj Mahal, Xica da Silva, Camisa 10 de Gavea

No idea what he's singing but I'm here for a funking good time, and that's what I got. I can always rely on the Sth Americans to make me want to move my hips. Not sure when I might listen to this again but it's now on a World playlist for that time.

Some interesting rhythms going on here. Had already heard the Soulful version of the first track, which I didn't realise was a cover until now. Can see the influence on later (Max fronted) Sepultura and Soulfly in the drums at least.

Really enjoyed this album. Great beats and vocals.

Definitely the BEST world album on this list. Great music, great funk, Lyrics - no idea, but damn fun to listen to and sing along with at times! Umbabaruauma! Gol! Great football song. I remember hearing that Rod Stewart's Do You Think I'm Sexy borrowed the melody from Taj Mahal. After hearing I definitely get it. Standouts: Ponta de Lança Africano (Umbabarauma), Taj Mahal, Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu, O filosofo, O plebeu, Xica da Silva, Fantástico! Loved it. 4.5/5

Well, this was a welcome surprise. Great energy for a summer Monday. Put me in a better mood immediately for a drive to work. Listened a second time thru the funk, good vibes and clean instrumentals all came together to create such an awesome album. 4 stars!

What a joyous listen. Fun, funky and some great melodies - so good Rod obviously nicked one of them. Really lifted my journey up this morning.

Definitely ahead of its time. Drums are constantly moving, guitar/keys are very unique.

This is what this list is all about. I never would have heard of this album otherwise and it's fantastic. Don't understand a word, but I vibe with every minute of it

Interesting Rhythmic Patterns

I couldn’t understand all of the lyrics but it’s still a fun album. I was dancing the whole way through. My only complaint is the squeaking in the background of several songs, I hate that sound.

Fun and funky! I want to revisit this one.

-excited to listen to some brazilian music tbh -haven’t heard a lot of it before -i like the vibes of this first song -i like the horns in the background -he also has a nice voice -love when phones have little dooo do de dooos in the background -O filósofo is really really good, probably one of my favorites -OOO THE GUITAR IS OUTTT -meus filhos, meu tesouro is ALSO now a favorite -like the different sounds being used in the background with the instruments and singing

Never heard of Jorge Ben Jor before, but this is great. If there’s such a genre as ‘samba rock funk’, then I think this is it. Reminds me a bit of Elza Soares at times which is no bad thing, and I suppose not very surprising given theyre both from the same place. Surprised to hear Rod Stewart ripped off Taj Mahal for ’D’ya think I’m sexy’. He agreed to donate all the proceeds to UNICEF which is nice. Will be returning to this.

Incredibly funky. I thought this would be more like a lot of the generic World music included on this list, but there are more rhythms, beats, and instruments than you could shake a stick at. Makes you want o dance, and puts you in a great mood.

This was a very nice surprise, not sure I had listened to a funky samba album before. Thoroughly enjoyed the upbeat nature of the album, great for a Monday morning. Will definitely listen to again. Highlights: Ponta De Lanca Africano Xica Da Silva A Historia De Jorge

When the album started, I wasn't quite expecting the guitar to be such a major focus, but nearly every riff here is super catchy, and the samba style really lends itself to this blend of music that is familiar yet all its own. That final song being so aggressive comparatively puts a nice bow on this extremely well made package. Perhaps the language barrier makes this a tad repetitive, but it is a repeat of only banger after banger, so that is hardly a knock against it. Rod Stewart can eat his heart out when it comes to Taj Mahal, quite frankly. Sick of artists "sampling" (or in this case straight up stealing) amazing music and making it obviously worse. I believe George Harrison when he says he unconsciously lifts a melody from a song, not the "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" guy.

wow! jorge ben jor's áfrica brasil sure was lively, despite it not being a live album. it isn't easy to create that kind of natural energy in a studio. but i found myself clapping, bopping, dancing along to these songs. i had a good time listening! each song was distinct from one another, yet the album as a whole was a fusion of jazz and funk. and then in the final song, ben jor threw us a curveball with that beautiful piano! a joyful listen. worthy of being on this list!

This was, simply put, a fun album to listen to! It was very funky and full of Latin flair. I loved the addition of tropical sounds on this album, as well. Jorge's vocals were great and added to the overall great and fun vibes of the album. No two songs are alike and yet the energy manages to stay consistent all throughout. I would definitely go so far as to say that this has been one of the best albums under the 'world music' umbrella that I have heard on this project thus far!

Nice mix of pop with Brazilian influence. This record makes me a bit more open to worldly records. I enjoyed a good chunk of it. 6,5 out of 10

Genre-mixing Brazilian artist hoovering on the edge of the Tropicalia movement.

Not the kind of music I would normally listen to, and I didn't understand any of the lyrics, but it was fun, upbeat, and I enjoyed it.

Catchy hooks. I have no clue what they are singing about, but its catchy.

I really enjoyed this! One thing I notice when venturing outside the 'western blues-inspired' world of music is that there is often less emphasis on vocal performance and that's true here. This guy is a fine singer - on pitch, soulful, etc but for me it may as well be Raffi singing here haha there's so little emotion compared to the 'english language' greats like Robert Plant, etc. He did get going on the last track Africa Brasil thought that was a fantastic recording.

I love Jorge Ben Jor. Honestly, I do prefer his earlier stuff (Take It Easy My Brother Charles is an anthem). But I appreciate the transition in his style that this album represents.

3.5 Rod Stewart stole Do You Think I'm Sexy from the Taj Mahal

Afro-Brazilian Samba Funk!!!!

I found this pretty catchy. I wasn't overly focused on it, but it was definitely enjoyable.

interesting

Unique. I enjoyed it.

Ik moet eerlijk toegeven dat ik er niet bepaald zin in had toen het machtige algoritme me deze huiswerkopdracht gaf, maar de muziek valt me enorm mee moet ik zeggen. Ik betrap mezelf erop dat ik regelmatig met m'n voet mee zit te tikken op de maat. Ritmisch erg lekker, funky, een prettige stem. Als kaasminnende tatta ervaar ik dit natuurlijk ook als exotisch en daarmee lekker zomers. Alleen die apengeluiden, gemaakt met een soort Zuid-Amerikaanse rommelpot waarvan ik het bestaan tot vandaag niet kende, zijn wel op het randje van irritant soms. Maar dat hoort er nou eenmaal bij. Prima. Voor een paar linkse deugpunten staan we wijd open voor vreemde culturen natuurlijk. 4 sterren, mede ook om landgenoot Vinícius een hart onder de riem te steken.

This hit the spot! Opens and closes with bangers, has a fair few between. I’m largely unschooled in Brazilian psychedelic rock, and would like to more about the sounds than Wikipedia will tell me, for example which did Wham pinch? Bookmarking this. Listened to this three times, probably would’ve listened to this more had I not been pushed down a King Crimson wormhole by companions.

I really enjoyed this album. I've heard a bit of Jorge Ben's music in the past and liked it a lot as well, so I was excited to get this album. It's inspired me to go check out more of his work. He's great at blending and crossing between genres, so I'll be interested to hear more. Standout Tracks: Ponta de Lança Africano (Umbabarauma), O Filósofo, Taj Mahal, Xica da Silva, Cavaleiro do Cavalo Imaculado, África Brasil (Zumbi)

This album as a whole was absolutely amazing, the way Jorge Ben Jor uses his own language to sing was amazing And for instruments, everything worked do well and it felt soulful. Overall : This albums was really good and I might be coming back to it

Funky beats with ladies singing the chorus. Portuguese lyrics. Overall pretty exciting and chill too.

Really nice pleasant album. Will definitely listen again as background music Saved tracks: Ponta De Lanca Africano, O Filósofo, Taj Mahal, África Brazil (Zumbi)

Originally a samba artist, Jorge Ben would join the growing popularity of MPB, Brasil's own modern take on bossa nova and samba. This particular take on MPB draws influence from Funk, which has hit it's stride over in the states. The result is fun, high-quality music from Brasil!

4 star nice

Great album. 20 albums in and this is the first one I’ve previously listened to front to back. It’s both varied and cohesive. Lots happening. Jorgen Ben sings, chants and talks over a varied and fun soundscape. Not quite a five for me, i miss a real standout track that I want to come back to again and again, but a great album nonetheless.

I liked this a lot, wished I could understand the language. It had a unique vibe of having one foot firmly planted in an ancient tradition and the other in the future.

"África Brasil" is the 14th studio album by Brazilian artist by Jorge Ben. It was a switch in his music with more electric guitar and incorporating Afro-Brazilian and American. Other artists including David Byrne and the Ambitious Lovers covered songs from this album. Rod Stewart lifted the melody from "Taj Mahal" for "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" resulting in the royalties being donated to UNICEF. Good move. Ponta de lança africano (Umbabarauma) starts the album off with sort of a bluesy guitar. A funky beat. There's a groove going. Great backing vocals which are throughout this album. The song is about an African football player. "O Plebeu" is a reworked song. An easy groove and more great backing female vocals."Taj Mahal" is another reworked song. It has a dance beat and horns. It's quicker. Oh, yeah, the vocal chorus is "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy." A great, fun song. "Xica da Silva" is a little slower driven by percussion and drums. The melody reminded me of The Style Council. More great vocals. "Camisa 10 da Gávea" has a Caribbean rhythm. There's whistles. A great melody. This sounds like a number of David Byrne and Talking Heads' songs. This album was really an enjoyable listen. Jorge has a tremendous voice. It's easy to keep your head bobbing. The songs are mostly rhythm driven and funky at times. The guitar adds layers. Recommended for just about anyone.

This was fun. I'll probably forget about it in a week, but I enjoyed it.

Another great listen. I don't really know enough to critique or comment on these albums, but I love having them on while I work and will return to them for cooking and date nights

Liked this album, did not know it before except for the Rod Stewart semi-cover, but the mix between Brazilian samba and American funk works well.

Pretty groovy album. Love the night feel and the funk jams. 8.5/10 Favorite Track: Xica Da Silva Least favorite Track: Africa Brasil (Zumbi)

New one for me and wow this is really good. I'll be going back to this one for sure.

I wasn’t expecting to like this at all and liked it a lot! Some good funk with African rhythms. Didn’t understand anything but enjoyed the vibe.

Much better then i was expecting. A solid groove and a great funky sound.

I got this in a VMP subscription on vinyl and I remember liking it a lot more than I expected to. On second listen, I started to really like it. It's obvious that it's not standard pop music of US/UK and I can't understand any of it, but it's interesting and that's good enough for me.

My only other experience with Jorge Ben is Mas Que Nada and Forca Bruta...I can't say as a whole that I like this project as much as either of those, but it's still a pretty fun, eclectic album.

Excellent album. This is one you put on in the car when you're slow cruising around town. Not sure how else to phrase it, it just sounds so cool.

Very happy and fun album with a lot of good funk.

What a delightful mix of instruments and rhythms from Africa, Brazil and the funky parts of USA from one of the biggest legend of the genre(s). Jorge Ben (Jor) delivers endlessly pulsating tracks driven by his recently found electric guitar. The album is packed with catchy tunes, but especially the start with numbers such as 'Ponta De Lanca Africano', 'O Filosofo', and 'Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro' is captivating. Also nice to hear 'Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?' hidden in plain sight on 'Taj Mahal'.

would listen again

Amazing opening songs and tailed of a bit after that. But enjoyed this emensly

One of those joyous gems that this list is all about

Joyous fun. Very groovy. No idea what the lyrics were on about, but it sounded good. A little to heavy in the cheese.

This was an unexpected joy.

Nice and lively

Rating: 7/10

This was dope. Nice that Amazon rolled right into Seu Jorge.

Despite not knowing Portuguese at all, I definitely enjoyed some tracks. First, second particular I played on loop for a few times. Some songs are hypnotic.

Upbeat, fun and funky mix of Brazilian trpoicalia with western song structures. It works a treat and is instantly likeable. Rating: 4.5/5 Playlist track: Ponta de Lança Africano (Umbabarauma) Date listened: 10/03/23

This was awesome. Loved the vibe of the album!

Fun album!

I'm not the biggest fan of Portuguese artists just because I didn't grow up with that language. I grew up with a lot of Hispanic people around me but not really Brazilian. I did enjoy this album a lot though and I think it was a good first dive into music from Brazil.

dálítið kaffihús. en frekar skemmtileg innsýn í tónlist sem ég þekki ekki. griselda tekur búta héðan. fjarki.

Very good, one to get on vinyl if possible.

2023/03/01

Nice to see some more international music finally! Made updating my spreadsheets ✨funky✨

A non English album! First one in months. I loved this one. It’s just great

This album honestly blew my mind! The guitar! The melodies! The passion! Discoveries like these are what makes me love this project so much. I have to look this man up. (Also apparently Rod Stewart stole the chorus melody of da ya think I’m sexy from him?! Damn the more you know 8/10 Fave: Xica da Silva

Same as always, I love Latin jazz! Is that actually what this is? Not exactly. It's definitely got the Latin flair, and some jazz elements, but at times it even sounds rock-y. Apparently this was Brazilian pop music at the time, which is so cool to think about, this being the standard radio fare there. Very cool. Love the little whoops throughout, often reminded me of Herbie Hancock's "Watermelon Man." Side note, but damn, I can't wait 'til we get Head Hunters, I'm 90% sure it's on this list. I only pulled a few tracks out from this album, but this is one is the kind of music I'd never say no to. I always appreciate getting albums from other countries (that aren't the UK). Favorite tracks: O Filosofo, O Plebeu, Africa Brasil. Album art: For a portrait shot, not bad at all. I like that it's a little blurry, he sounds like a guy with a lot going on. Simple but effective. 4/5

Combine Afro-Funk and Brazilian samba? Works for me!

heat.

Amazing album, sadly could not listen to it fully on spotify... I love the instruments used; cuica. And the inspiration it provided to other artists such as Rob Stewart. Huge fan, and an amazing taste of Brazilian creativity.

8/10 - from what I heard it was very good

I really enjoyed this, it was great fun

Funky Stuff. Though the Album cover is somewhat unsettling.

This album was awesome. Very different from alot I've listened to. The drums were immaculate and the frequent use of the monkey sounding drum is perfect. Really enjoyed.

very good

I’m not much into World music, but the grooves on this album were good.

It’s exciting to get more non-English music today. The album generator seems to have made a good week for that as I also had Miriam Makeba just a few days ago. I’m only familiar with one Jorge Ben song, so I’m excited to hear a full album. Songs I already knew: Taj Mahal Favourites: Taj Mahal, Ponta de Lanca Africano, Cavaleiro do Cavalo Imaculado Today’s album was another rump shaker which is never a bad thing. I couldn’t understand the lyrics, but I could feel the passion coming from the vocals. The instrumentation was interesting throughout, with occasional use of less common sounds, such as whistle. Overall, the music made me want to dance at times, and play football at others. Overall, a very good album that I enjoyed.

I don't understand a lick of Portuguese but dang if it isn't a really sexy language. Despite not being able to follow along with any of the lyrics, I almost gave this a full five-star rating just because it was SO funky and fun. Really the only thing holding it back from perfection is a matter of personal taste. I can't stand the repetitive hooting and shrieking of samba whistles. I full accept that it's part of the genre but it's also stupidly annoying and I can't abide it.

It was great. Seriously fun. If only I knew Portuguese..

fun, yeah fun, pretty okaay, some silencec but yeah, a solid 4 i guess

Very impressive album with some far out creative sounds that make you feel like you really missed out on something special when this was going down in 1976. I mean can you imagine dancing to this live in '76? I bet it was hot hot hot!!

This is way better than I thought it would be. Lotsa fun, super dynamic and full of energy. No idea what they're saying but would've loved to've been part of this party.

Lots of fun. High energy. If I knew what was being said, this would be a 5.

This was completely new to me, but I really enjoyed it and gave it two full listens. Very funky and groovy, I especially enjoyed "Ponta De Lanca Africano", "Taj Mahal" and "Xica Da Silva". I'd see myself listening to this again, it would be a good one to play at a party or just while chilling. I only wish I understood the lyrics!

Love some cuica. Groovy as all get out, but not a repeat listen.

Not sure what they were saying but I liked it. Give me some more of that please.

Great

Brazi music! I enjoyed this samba music especially after having just reminisced on my own time in Brazil during Logan Bird’s missionary farewell! Vamos!

This album feels really good. The cuica roots it in that quintessential Brazilian sound along side the blues and funk. Cool that it marked a shift for him to electric guitar.

Funky as all hell.

Really happy music, when you feeling down, it cheers you up…

Jorge Ben's 14th studio album (1976). África Brasil represented a milestone in Ben's career with Ben's switch to electric guitar and incorporation of both Afro-Brazilian and African-American funk music styles into his sound. Known for its funkiness, África Brasil is one of Ben's best-known recordings. Rolling Stone Brazil listed it as one of the 100 best Brazilian albums in history. Nice & funky sound. Liked it.

Taj Mahal!!

This album was really cool. Appropriately named too, with the mix of African and Latin American sounds in the musicals. Favorite track: O Filósofo

Really good. Probably even better if I understood the lyrics… but delivery and music as a vessel… excellent

Like this a lot. Upbeat, just great.

Funky cool sound. African mixed with funk rock.

That was very enjoyable. I thought I was hearing Rod Stewart for a few seconds.

This is a really fun album. I like the blend of traditional acoustic instrumentation with the electric guitars. I have t really been exposed to Brazilian music outside of bossa nova and a taste of samba, so I’m a bit out of my depth here. I’m glad I got the additional exposure. I’m giving it a 4 because to me, a non-Portuguese-speaking person, the album felt a bit like a cluster of decent songs that didn’t feel all that unified. Id happily be disproven or get a better explanation for why the album format doesn’t work the same way in this cultural milieu

Täähän on ihan todella jees! Pari vanhaa tuttuu biisii Jorgen muilta levyiltä, mutta on kyl sulavaa. Ihanaa vaihteluu myös perus poprockille. 4/5

Nice listen whilst working

Very cool sound and not what I was expecting from the album cover. I love it. Very cool and has a tinge of "badass" in that guitar throughout the album. This is a really cool addition to the list and I'd love to hear more of him. "Taj Mahal" and "Ponta De Lanca Africano" are early favorites!

leuk, de samba zit er goed in Ik kan me voorstellen dat ik sommige nummers hiervan nog 'ns beluister

Love the grooves here! Fave is Historia de Jorge

This was a really fun album

I mish mash of so many styles. I wasn't expecting some of the sounds coming out of this. It took me a bit to get used to but I got hooked when I realised this is the missing like between Fela Kuti style Afro Beat and the stuff Talking Heads infused into their music

Timelessly excellent funk and samba. All 70s music should have been this rich and compelling. Sounds contemporary still.

Groovy

The selection of World Music in the 1001 list that I've gotten has been... lacklustre... to put it politely. But luckily I now know that albums like this one have been included as well. 40 minutes of incredible funky, danceable and high tempo afrobeats and samba. Especially the second half of the album with Cavaleiro Do Cavala Imaculado as the final highlight have made a great impression. Great album from, apparently, one of the icons of Brazilian music. I will look into some more of his repertoire.

7/10. Pretty cool album, not sure how I feel about it guest starring The Watermelon Man from the third track onwards.

Somehow I had heard the first track of this album before. Overall I liked it but couldn’t get super into some of the sound. 7/10

Pretty cool, kind of rock, kind of reggae, kind of R&B.

Interesting AFro-Brazilian album. Kinda jazzy

Really good

Not my favorite album from him but super rad production. Deserves more love for sure

Solid

4, exceptional

It starts out with a blues riff, a drum fill, and then... bam... three percussionists. Then by the chorus we have five. And it's like that for most of the album. Under every song, a tapestry of rhythmic interplay. The guitar parts are fairly simple, but the urgent strumming often makes it act as part of the rhythm section (sometimes more so than the bass guitar, which seems more often to be serving to highlight the melody). I feel like we're so used to music that tries to make a small number of drums feel huge and fill the space, so this aspect really stands out. The wikipedia article for the album lists 15 musicians under personnel, 11 of whom play some sort of percussion instrument. Unfortunately one of those is the cuica. Maybe it's culturally ignorant of me of something, but the incessant monkey hoops of the cuica really just add way too much cheese to some otherwise great music. I don't mind when it comes to the forefront briefly, only to sink bank along with everything else, but frequently it's just too prominent in the mix. The production is treating the monkey like a vocalist, and the instrument (or how its played here at least) isn't melodically complex enough, or rhythmically accurate enough, to benefit the songs when it takes center stage the way that it frequently does. That aside, there are some great songs on this, especially in the second half. I love in both Taj Mahal and In Cavalerio Do Cavalo Imaculado, how the tempo is fast from the start, but the vocals start out relaxed, before matching the tempo and urging the song on. His vocals shake as he's strumming his guitar too. Your pampered modern fave is recording 20 different takes straight into a mic without a guitar in sight, old mate here is recording his guitar and vocal in the same take! (Is this recorded live? Surely not. That many percussion instruments would be a nightmare you'd think.) Xica Da Silva, the way the vocal contributes significantly to both the rhythm section and to the melody. The pacing of the lyrics in the chorus, the way the bass weaves in and out of it, and the rich backing vocals when they come in for the second line. I'm feeling emotional typing this. This song is so good. The closing track Africa Brasil (Zumbi) is a highlight for it's dirty dirty bass, and the growling vocals. It's an interestingly dark closer for something that frequently had a party feel for most of the album. I might not listen to the whole album again, but I've definitely added a few of these to some playlists. Really fun listening.

Really fun record to sit through! My fave tracks are probably "Ponta de Lança Africano (Umbabarauma)," "Taj Mahal," "O Plebeu," "Cavaleiro do Cavalo Imaculado," "Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu," and "África Brasil (Zumbi)."

First song got me boppin. I was expecting another samba/salsa type album but this is funkier so far. I actually added 3 songs to my spotify even though I don't speak spanish above a 3rd grade level. Super groovy and catchy melodies. Taj Mahal and Ponta De Lanco were insta-adds.

Прикольный альбом, необычный. Люблю африканские завывания.

A light 4, not my favourite Jorge Ben Jor album but still some great bops

I don't know Portuguese, but this was still enjoyable.

World music at his best, great utilisation of so many instruments. Love it

What a refreshing selection in the 1001 challenge. Finally a bit of samba, where the rhythms are creative and polyphonic and where the arrangements contain plenty of synth and wonderfully well-used brass. Very happy to have discovered this album!

Bacana!

This was an interesting and very fun album to listen to. It's a very successful mix of Brazilian sounds and Afro-funk, that just puts you in a good mood.

when I listened to the last album, this is the exact kind of album I thought I might prefer to see in this list. really neat. first full album in portuguese I've ever listened to, I think.

A percussive wonder. 3.9⭐

This is why I do these sort of challenges. A very pleasant surprise from this off-the- radar gem. A seemingly bewildering array of influences (blues rock, bossa-nova and African hi-life) is balanced so brilliantly by the songwriting without ever sounding derivative. Will definitely be returning to this outstanding album.

Obrigado for some funky Brasil-Afrobeat good times. I managed to pick up the melody that Rod Stewart got sued for.

Fantastic album that's a very fun listen. Great grooves throughout, really liked the horns and reggae feel in some of the songs.

I liked it

Samba rock!? I love this album. A lot of different genre blending (funk, jazz, Afro soul, Rock). My perception of samba up to this point has been Stan Getz and his soulful acoustic music and soft voice while Jorge Ben is the polar opposite. Beats are catchy and the guitar work is impressive. Wish I could speak Portuguese so I could understand what he is saying. Will be listening to this one again 4.5/5

Diferente e interesante

Samba. Alegre

Very nice album

Loved it!

An audible shot of pure bliss. As an added bonus, it also made me learn that Rod Stewart is a thief, something we all suspected and hoped was true.

It's fun when this list gives me albums from genres I haven't heard much before, artists I'm unaware of, from countries I don't normally think of as a source of music (sepultura obsession aside here lol). This doesn't strike me as a best-of-all-time sort of album. But give me this sort of fun romp over yet more UK rock/pop any day at this point. 4/5.

This was fun. I had never heard of this artist before and I wasn't really sure what it was going to be, but I enjoyed it. This isn't really a genre I have much experience with but I'd consider listening to it again. 3.5 getting the round up because it deserves it.

Solid. Old, interesting, groovy and a fusion of different styles.

A fresh combination of samba, afrobeat, and funk. I'm a fan of his voice, the Nick Cave-esque gospel back vocals, the clear production, and the high funkiness that results in half the tracks being fun to dance to. The percussions are clever, especially the use of the speaky cuica. Riffs are deep and subtle. There were a good amount of highlights. They even embodied the jazz-funk spirituality of Herbie Hancock in "A Historia de Jorge." I hear good things from A Tábua de Esmeralda. Favorites: O Filosofo, O Plebeu, Taj Mahal, Xica Da Silva, Africa Brasil

Favorite Tracks: Ponta De Lanca Africano O Filosófo Taj Mahal Xica Da Silva África Brasil

When I saw we got Jorge I was hoping that at least one of the songs I would consider his "anthems" would be on it, and I lucked out and got 2: "Ponta de Lança Africano (Umbabarauma)" and "Taj Mahal". This was certainly funky stuff for 1975 and Brazilian hits are great to sing along to, as live audiences down there love to do!

This was a great album that 100% deserves to be on this list. Holy SHIT, the opening track (Ponta de lança Africano) fucking slaps and is by FAR my very fave. I'd rate this 4.5 stars if I could because while every track was enjoyable I would only return to listen to a few of them. Side note: Did Rod Stewart sample "Taj Mahal" (another great track) with Do Ya Think I'm Sexy? Because if so...the original is better. This artist, by the way, is well known for his adaptation of the classic jazz standard "Mas Que Nada." Whew, this was a great way to spend a morning.

Wow, this is so great, so much energy, just makes me want to dance. Faves: Ponta De Lanca Africano, O Filosofo, Taj Mahal.

Lively, fun, afro-latin romp!

Interesting Latin african mix, good for background working in my case

This album is good enough that I can almost overlook how much I normally dislike the sound of the cuica. Certainly Rod Stewart liked one of the songs on here, "Taj Mahal", enough to steal it outright for "Do You Think I'm Sexy"... I don't speak a word of Portuguese, but I get the overall period funk vibe (dig the synthesiser as well); no idea about its place in the overall scheme of "world music" (ergh) but I liked it a lot. And not enough songs name-check Hermes Trismegistus...

Very enjoyable

This album is a lot of fun

Cool album. Probably deserves more recognition than just the whole Rod Steward thing, decent disco funk grooves throughout.

enjoyed it!

Blusey, funky African, Brazilian roots rock. Play this and embarrass yourself when you're dancing and everyone thinks you're appropriating two different cultures when you're not - this just has fucking tunes! Best Tracks: Ponta De Lanca Africano; Taj Mahal; Xica Da Silva

Yeeeeeah this was good stuff. Lively, joyous music from damn fine musicians.

Muy bueno

Another classic in World music. I find that non-American artists have an easier time including unique sounds into their compositions, which is refreshing. I enjoyed hearing all the parts in these songs, and they provided something new with each listen. Even though it’s a different language than English, the record is still very listenable.

Really like this one.

Super fun beat. Great energy.

An unknown artist for me, and what a treat to enjoy the entertaining rhythms from South America! That's what I hoped for when I signed up here.

3/07/22

Not really my thing, but was fun to listen to. Sounds like the kind of music that gets sampled in other songs. :)

Wow this music makes me wanna dance, makes me wanna play football makes me wanna understand and live the Brazilian lifestyle Groovy, catchy, tropical. African roots mixed with South American, a can't miss mix 4/5

la légende raconte qu’après des semaines d’absence, le soleil est revenu en Belgique au moment exact où j’ai cliqué sur play

I’m not sure what type of music this is. Maybe some samba influence but also plenty of electric guitar and some African beats. The first song is excellent as is the title song to finish up. It has a real angsty feel even though I have no idea what the lyrics are saying. Interesting sounds and I’ll listen to it more for sure.

Great album, felt like Summer was here.

Really enjoyed the sound. I honestly wish there were more non-english language albums on this list. Plan to listen to more of the artist in the future. 3.5/5

I have to reveal my ignorance here: I'd never heard of Jorge Ben before and didn't know any of his music. Of course, I immediately knew I could get behind anyone who inspired David Byrne. But I can't judge "Africa Brasil" against many other Brazilian albums, much less try to contextualise the album's fusion of samba with Afrobeat, rock and African-American funk. And of course, the lyrics are lost on me. All I really had to go on was impulsive response to the beat... the melody... the rhythms... the feel. As an introduction to this genre, this particular blend of sounds and Brazil's culture in the 1970s, "Africa Brasil" is an exhilarating listen. Whether Ben Jor is revelling in samba roots ("Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro"), foreshadowing disco ("Taj Mahal") or going for straight-up funk ("Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu"), he's having a whale of a time across the album. One of my main takeaways from it was the obvious Western cross-over appeal here, more than I expected there to be (which is perhaps how it made the list). Right from the off, the album's first sound is a swampy electric guitar riff tantamount to southern rock. Later, "O Filosofo" and "O Plebeu", two of the album's gorgeous softer numbers, are structured around simple three chord progressions commonly found in the major scale of Western pop. There's also a heavy presence from funky, skittering electric guitars throughout, and synthesisers underscoring vocal hooks (to great effect in "O Plebeu") The rest of the instrumentation- more traditional to South American or African music- is arranged and mixed to finish off the album's party atmosphere, particularly the layers of syncopated percussion throughout each song (often dominated by the squeaky friction drums known as cuicas). The backing vocalists are exceptional and often add some of the best dimensions to the album: take the call-and-response vocals in the opener, or the glorious refrain of "Taj Mahal". While I found the album's first half exceptional, some its second seemed to be trying the same ideas to slightly diminished effect. "Camisa 10 Da Gavea" has a great counter melody on flute, but doesn't have the same drive or rhythmic intensity as some of the earlier tracks. The last last two tracks redeem things slightly, with "Cavaleiro de Cavalo Imaculado" returning propulsion and the finale closing proceedings on a note of anthemic passion with its chorus of layered vocals. I had a great time with "Africa Brasil" album and feel keen to go into more of Ben Jor's work as well as that of his contemporaries. My only other slight gripe is that whenever I have it stuck in my head in future, I'll need to clarify to everyone that I am singing "Taj Mahal" and not "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy".

I really enjoyed this album, enough to give it 4* !

Perhaps slightly over-rated but really enjoyed the first half of the album.

4.5

Brilliant

Hafði aldrei heyrt þessa, en hún er mjög hressandi. Mæli með.

A fun listen

Awesome Brazilian jazz, really dig this one

Det här är så nära en femma man kan komma. Det blir liiiite för långrandigt. Det hade kunnat kortats ner med en eller två låtar. Men fram till spår 7 är det otroligt bra och svängigt.

Great album to just sit back and feel the funk

Some shit-hot playing on here. Wouldn't normally listen to stuff like this, but this one stays.

What fun to see what the writer of "Mas Que Nada" was doing with Brazilian music in the 70s. Happily it still has a good dose of the cuíca, which makes everything sound like it's a Carnaval party parade. This was a great listen. Standout songs were "Ponta de Lanca Africano" (a soccer anthem), "Taj Mahal" (which apparently snuck into Rod Stewart's head), "Xica da Silva" (about an 18th century woman born into slavery who became a "great lady"). Brazil hasn't disappointed me yet. Hope to hear more. I'm swaying and moving and singing along (the best I can) and enjoying every minute.

This was again something that I had never heard of, and I had a heck of a lot of fun listening to it. Funky with a vibe of the seventies.

This is some fun and funky Brazilian music. I listened to “Ponta de Lanca Africano” as I was driving and I felt like it should I should be in the ending of some 1970s film. It was smooth, funky, and cool. “Hermes Trismegisto Escreveu” continued that feeling. Great opening songs! “O Plebeu” was really nice. I loved the “Lalalála lalalá lalá”s. And it really sounded like Rod Stewart stole some of the melody from “Taj Majal” for his song “Do Ya’ Think I’m Sexy?” Other highlights included “História de Jorge”, “Cavaleiro do Cavalier Imaculado”, and a really nice ending with “África Brasil (Zumbi)”. I quite enjoyed this album.

Pretty sweet album, nice and funky

Muy bueno

Fun album to listen to like many Brazilian samba albums. 7/10.

Funky Brazilian beats. What's not to like.

I liked this album. It's unique and I liked the varity of songs. My favorite song from the whole album is probably Taj Mahal.

Fucks 4/6

Episkt

Wonderful rhythms... Did not mind that I don't understand Portuguese...

Taj Mahal - Da think im sexy Album gesamt 3.5/4

So welcome after that Jane's Addiction schlock. I don't even need to speak the same language to have this music speak more clearly to me... This is an interesting mix of tropicalia and funk. The female backup vocals are welcome and excellent. Had never heard this artist but am so glad I did. I read a little about Jorge Ben Jor and it appears he's known for his satirical lyrics. That's cool. Obviously, I have no clue. But I like his voice. I want to be on a tropical beach listening to this. Or driving next to a beach in an old convertible. I'll take either one. I think my internal rating criteria really benefits bands/artists that I've never heard but am pleasantly surprised by. Jorge Ben Jor is definitely in that category. So maybe this is actually a 3.5 but I'm rounding up to 4.

Real funky, super cool

Great fun

I enjoyed this a lot. My kind of funk. And I can see exactly why he sued Rod Stewart.

I wasn't familiar with the artist or the album, but I have been casually listening to some Brazilian music recently. Nice grooves and an infectious rhythm that is very easy to listen to. Thanks for the suggestion!

eeh maar deze is echt genieten ! cavaleiro, taj mahal en ponta neem ik mee

PUURU GENIETEN

That was funkin’ WILD. Gimme more dat Brasil Bop.

Had heard the lead track but not the rest. Very listenable and something I should revisit.

Bangin'. Wasn't familiar with it but it had me hooked.

Has some really awesome instrumentals and vocals. One of the most fun albums I’ve listened to in a while, I’ll definitely throw this on to get hyped in the future.

funky, I'm jamming better than most of the other albums I've listened to, and I don't even know what they're saying in this one Didn't realize it finished

Wonderful to listen to

Great mix of Brazilian, African, and soul/blues/R&B. This album is incredibly interesting rhythmically and the combination of the familiar (to western audiences) and the unfamiliar is very effective. The album remains exciting and fast paced from the first to the last song.

Brazilian music. First song is about soccer

Fun

Muito bom, gostei, principalmente a música sobre os filhos. Não considero o melhor álbum do Jorge Ben Jor mas é bom.

Good fun. I have a soft spot for brazillian music, and this tickled it.

Hot album with hot tunes got me jammin world wide. I don’t understand the lyrics but the music was beautiful and I want to be in brasil ayyy Top tracks : Africa brasil, Taj Mahal, historia de jorge

Listened to 5/6/21

very fun and progressive

i thought it was good even though i can't understand the words. i particularly like o plebeu

Invigorating and fun!

good album

This album was a bit of a revelation to me. Celebratory, brimming with ideas. It was like a window into a whole new realm of music. Favourite track: Africa Brasil (Zumbi)

Not sure what exactly to call this? Love the groove tho

Groovy

Love this guy

Production: 15/20 Songwriting: 16/20 Innovation: 15/20 Bangers: 15/20 Emotional response: 16/20 =77 Cracking stuff this

Prima!

Bro he speaking facts

Fantastic, funky, infectiously groovy and a lot of fun even with the language barrier. Also, copious use of friction drums! Fave track - "Taj Mahal" - can't really blame Rod Stewart for ripping off that great melody!

Pretty funky

Really good. Easy listening. I enjoyed it.

Fun music with great melodies and groove to spare.

Pretty alright. I can get on board with Afro-Brazilian samba funk pop.

Funky!

oh boy I love this FUNK. that electric guitar fits so well. mmm these percussion sounds

so funky cool

Give me more!!

Interesting. Has some fun rhythm

Très sympa. Ca met de bonne humeur.

Jazzy, infectious rhythms

-Really dig this right off the bat with Ponta De Lanco Africano -The songs are so long but I really enjoy it! -O Plebeu is also a favorite--it went into my beach playlist

This was a fun album, but not the greatest for sitting at a desk at work. Also wish I knew the name of that whooping instrument in the back of some tracks

This album is pretty fun… I like it!

Love it

3⭐️

Good musically but I don’t speak this language. Couldn’t get in the groove

Fun listen, kind of reminds me of one of my favorite modern duos CA7RIEL + Paco Amoroso

Fun but not my bag.

3.4 Very consistent album, it gets knocked down a little because i dont completely love the genre. I appreciate it, but it aint my favorite. Tho this is the best album ive heard so far in this genre.

I like listening to music like this, and getting to hear the unique composition styles.

Decent listen

Huge vibes… just not sure they’re my vibes

Fela?

This is the best African influenced Brazilian funk album I've listened to all week! Seriously though, fun album, with crazy good rhythms. I feel like I should be drinking a cocktail and dancing in a conga line or something instead of reading and replying to emails.

Vaikea keksiä tästä mitään järkevää sanottavaa. Ei ollenkaan huono levy ja varmaan tärkeä teos omassa genressään.

Wel grappig ofzo, niet heel bijzonder verder

This is a very fun vibe but pretty much the same thing throughout

Not my favorite but a decent listen

3.2 2x interesting but Erika doesn't like camisa dez due to Flamengo hah

Rätt najs. Men hade kanske önskat lite mindre konstiga ljud, cow bells ä allt vad fan det är.

Jorge Ben Jor’s Africa Brasil is an interesting and energetic album that blends samba, funk, soul, and Brazilian popular music into something that feels distinctly its own. I liked it overall, especially the way Ben Jor brings African influences and themes of Black identity and heritage into his music without sacrificing the warmth and groove of his sound. There are some really engaging moments here, with the rhythm section and guitar work giving the album a strong sense of movement. At its best, the music feels lively, loose, and infectious, and there’s a lot to appreciate in the way Ben Jor combines different traditions. That said, I did find the album a little tiring at times. The consistent rhythmic intensity and relatively similar atmosphere across some of the tracks made it feel somewhat long, and I occasionally found my attention drifting. Still, there’s enough character and originality here to make it an interesting listen, particularly for anyone interested in the connections between Brazilian and African musical traditions. Overall, Africa Brasil is a fascinating and groove-heavy record with a strong cultural identity. It didn’t completely hold my attention throughout, but I enjoyed exploring it and can definitely see why it’s regarded as an important album.

Reminds me of the Tiki jungle noises album. Lots of monkey-like noises. I might be into monkey jazz!!

Funkeh, certainly transcends the monotony of world music I find the cover really creepy, just me?

Interesting. A bit of bossa nova, fun rythms overall, nice to have in the background, but I wouldn't choose it purposely to listen to it.

i can’t say this is my first taste of brazilian pop. but it’s (usually) always a pleasure to get an international album, especially in a language or genre i’m not familiar with. i liked most of the songs but near the end of the album some songs had this reoccurring sound in the background that, honestly, reminded me of the bird sounds on some of the rio soundtrack. but in this instance, it was unbearable, leading me to skip one of the songs before it even hit 10 seconds. but it was good overall. 3.5

put this one on the back burner as I was pretty busy today. Still going to give it a listen though!

It's nice, actually. Pretty chill.

Bossa nova plus a few extras. Fun and energetic.

Taj Mahal’s chorus is the same melody as “If You Think I’m Sexy” by Rod Stewart. There’s an instrument used here I’ve only heard in the Austin Powers soundtrack that always makes me laugh/pleased. The first half was all real solid then I kinda just tuned out.

Cool Latin album had me singing along to words i don't understand

eeeee interesante mezcla de musicas, pero no resono en mi interior, se que tendra su lugar, o no. no auto

Pleasant, but this list becomes weirder and more scattershot by the day.

Fun and groovy! Language barrier is a thing so i can’t rate it too highly, sorry. Standouts are tracks 1, 2, 4, 7 and 8.

Enjoyed

Not my thing

3.7

This was alright but it didn’t really capture me. It was rhythmically interesting but it all tended to blend together and pass me by.

Pleasant surprise. Nice and chill

Sure beats the fake blues of the Yardbirds. Crazy how diverse Brazilian music is.

Good beats on this.

3 - Fun!

This just doesn't quite do it for me. It's fun, it's a step out of the regular culture. It is groovin. But it just doesn't quite seem like something that is to my taste. Either way, I don't quite finding myself tune it out as much as I have the lesser albums that cause my interest to wane. It is musically interesting and a good lick of world music to widen my palette I suppose.

pretty good fun danceable music

This is The List. I had no prior knowledge of Jorge Ben Jor and now I am a fan. I was enjoying this album, with the retro disco-meets-Santana feel when I learned that this album is older than I am. Hermes Trismegisto was a bluesy disco swinger, O Filosofo sounded a lot like Velvet Underground. Taj Mahal is straight up If You Think I’m Sexy from Rod Stuart, just a Portuguese version. My key song was, appropriately, A Historia de Jorge, which not only had a great vibe but a good jam. This album was awesome!

Random thoughts: * great album for a hot weekend * several of the melodies felt or sounded familiar. I’m wondering if traditional pop music lifted the melodies and I’ve heard them elsewhere * this reminded me of the city of god soundtrack. I’ll have to play that one too. * the fusion of samba, African, and funk was a perfect concoction * I’m gonna have to pull this one out again * btw - Jorge Ben wrote Mas Que Nada which is one of Brazilian music’s most famous tunes

Upbeat and enjoyable. However, it's not my type of thing overall, although I can appreciate its strengths. Favourite Track: Taj Mahal

Rytmisk med mycket trummor.