Bud Shank - Holiday in Brazil

2011 reissue.

On Holiday in Brazil, altoist Bud Shank and guitarist Laurindo Almeida attempted to blend the tradition of Brazilian music with that of modern jazz. The texture that comes of putting Shanks liquid alto over Almeidas finger-style guitar is delightfully fresh, to say the very least. But there is more than mere attractiveness here: on some of the slower works, there is a curious serenity, and grace. At other times, the group develops a potent hard swing.

There is more free, extended blowing by Shank on Latin Contrasts, and a more definite jazz atmosphere engendered by the strong rhythm support of Gary Peacocks bass and Chuck Flores nicely restrained drumming, which ties the group into one easy-riding whole.