Brazilliance, Vol. 2

by Scott YanowFive years after guitarist Laurindo Almeida and altoist Bud Shank had a regular quartet, documented what could be considered the first bossa nova recordings (Brazilliance, Vol. 1), and then disbanded, they had a reunion. This CD reissue features Almeida, Shank (now doubling on flute), bassist Gary Peacock, and drummer Chuck Flores once again combining Brazilian rhythms and folk melodies with cool bop improvising. This time around, the arrangements are not as restrictive, Shank's solos are longer, and the jazz content sometimes overrides the Brazilian elements. The music is still quite enjoyable (the very complementary Almeida and Shank would join together again in the 1970s as the L.A. Four) if not as historical; both volumes are highly recommended.