Infancia

Alegre Corrêa is a vocalist and acoustic guitarist, but on this 1993 recording, he also plays the one-stringed, bow-like berimbau and performs percussion. Ten other musicians join him on his compositions in performances that celebrate the wide-eyed joy of infancy. The airy, uplifting jazz arrangements feature nimble flute, cheery guitar lines, and a smiling harmonica. Occasional rattles, whistles, and light scat from vocalist Denise Fontoura complete a picture that relates both to the easy jubilance of childhood and the sunny pleasures of spring in full bloom. Thus, it is especially fitting that the cover is decorated in flowers and butterflies drawn by Corrêa's daughter, Gabi, to whom this CD is dedicated. Slightly tropical in feel, this recording is not only for children; the trombone work of special guest Christian Rodovan on "Grajau" will satisfy many jazz fans. "O Pequeño Cigano" features the vocals of special guest Timna Brauer. Backed by guitar, drums, and electric piano, she moves beautifully from moderately fast verses to clarion, upper-register reaches. There is also a fascinating "Tanog" that grows out of the contrast between the sounds of conversation and a sleeper's breathing, and the timbre of different instruments. [Two bonus tracks are included as part of this reissue.]