Bebel Gilberto

Although has been writing, performing, and recording since her childhood, this is only her second full-length solo album. The child of Brazilian legend and the celebrated singer , she comes by her musical talent honestly, but has honed and developed it carefully over the years, being careful not to overexpose herself or peak too early; as a result, she now emerges as a mature and fully developed singer despite her relative youth. Her eponymous sophomore effort is a delightfully warm and unaffected program of , much (but not all) of it in a fairly style. There are elements in the mix, but they are mostly kept in the background; instead of aggressive or superimposed breakbeats, the instrumental accompaniment is mostly woven from organic percussion, acoustic guitars, bass, and piano. This all serves to keep one's attention where it belongs: on 's sweet, rich voice and her gorgeous melodies. Highlights include the lovely the gently heartbroken and the lilting, almost funky Very highly recommended. ~ Rick Anderson