All One

by Ken DrydenOscar Castro-Neves has been one of the most important Brazilian musicians on the jazz scene for some time. His skills as a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and arranger are all on display in this release. Starting with a swinging instrumental setting of Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Double Rainbow," which incorporates Charlie Bisharat's Gypsy-like violin, Gary Meek's multiple reeds, and pianist Don Grusin, Castro-Neves signals that this is not going to be a predictable release. His compositions include the funky, strutting "All One" and the infectious "Holding with an Open Hand." The surprising rendition of "'Round Midnight" begins dramatically, then suddenly turns into a lively upbeat bossa nova. Equally compelling are his arrangements of standards like "The Very Thought of You" and "There Will Never Be Another You," both of which feature his warm, friendly vocals. The only disappointment is the inclusion of smooth jazzer Michael Franks' lightweight, monotonous "One Bad Habit" to close an otherwise flawless CD.