PAULO FLORES ''RECOMPASSO'' (ANGOLA,2001) @ [352k VBR]

PAULO FLORES

''RECOMPASSO''

(ANGOLA, 2001) @

Recompasso is a sort of retrenching for Paulo Flores. He has pared down his sound to the acoustic essentials while retaining the strong percussive underpinning that Angolan music is based on. There are no synthesized beats to compete with the purity of the songs here. However, the tracks are no less compelling and heartfelt than on his previous albums. He is always exploring the Afro-pop horizon and does so here with authority and feeling. There is ample evidence of his strong DNA ties to Angolan rhythms. The semba track, "Poema Do Semba, " done with Carlos Burity, another Angolan semba master, explodes with bone-marrow percussion and powerful vocals from two of the best exponents of this Angolan dance. This dance is really the flag of the Angolan people and sustains them through what seems like endless strife and misery. It is one of the only hopes that his people have.

Paulo Flores speaks directly to his people through his beautifully rhythmic compositions and plaintive soulful voice. The haunting hypnotic "Clarice" is another track for the repeat button. It's a slow sensual dance rhythm that lingers in the body and ear long afterwards. Apart from some minor concessions, like singing in English on one song and a reggae track, this album is another gem from this African maestro. From lament to scorching semba, Paulo Flores shows again that he can run the gamut of emotions with artistic style and sensitivity. As stated in previous reviews, Angola is blessed with great musical talent. Paulo Flores is one of its artists that deserve worldwide recognition. Highly recommended.

~ Mark Romano, All Music Guide