vinícius mendes: macunaísmo tardio vol. 1 & 2
Francisco Espregueira
Hailing from the musical hotbed of Minas Gerais, Brazil, saxophonist and composer Vinícius Mendes has finally delivered his magnum opus, Macunaísmo Tardio. This two-volume set, released on Notes On A Journey, is a treasure trove for fans of adventurous jazz and sophisticated Brazilian music.
Mendes' background is steeped in both tradition and exploration. Inspired by iconic figures like Milton Nascimento and Lô Borges, he delved into the instrumental side of Brazilian music, following the path of artists like Hermeto Pascoal who dared to push boundaries. This blend of Brazilian rhythms and North American free jazz influences forms the backbone of Macunaísmo Tardio.
The album boasts both original compositions by Mendes and reimagined Brazilian classics. Backed by a stellar cast of musicians, Mendes' dazzling saxophone weaves a spell throughout, drawing inspiration from the likes of Sam Rivers and Hank Mobley while retaining a distinctly South American flavor. The result is a journey through serene passages, expansive improvisations, and moments of pure forward-thinking ambition.
This is a record that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Belo Horizonte while firmly establishing Vinícius Mendes as a leading voice in contemporary Brazilian jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz buff or a curious newcomer, Macunaísmo Tardio is a must-listen. Available on vinyl.
“Post-bop, to my ears, has a relationship with the instrumental Brazilian music of the 70s. So this album reflects them all: from Nelson Ângelo and Novelli through the Quarteto Novo, Joyce and Paulinho da Viola to Andrew Hill, Sam Rivers and people like that.”