Transition combines the talents of three brilliant Brazilian musicians, pianist
Dom Salvador, bassist
Rogério Botter Maio, and drummer
Duduka Da Fonseca. Together they explore favorites of their native land, originals, and standards from the Great American Songbook.
Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Ana Luiza" is a neglected ballad that the trio approaches in a whispering manner, with
Salvador's lyrical piano complemented by
Maio's singing bassline and
Da Fonseca's adept brushwork. The originals are all memorable.
Salvador's "Transition" suggests a lively street dance during the Carnaval season.
Maio's haunting ballad "1984" is reminiscent of
Bill Evans' dramatic writing. "Drums Vignette" is a brilliant solo showcase for
Da Fonseca. With
Da Fonseca on brushes, the trio offers an inventive treatment of "Alfie" that avoids stating the theme right away, setting it up with an improvisation before
Maio introduces the famous piece. "Stella by Starlight" has long been a jazz favorite and the trio's interpretation is a bit more conventional, showcasing
Salvador's considerable chops in a boppish setting, with the rhythm section providing a fluid background. Their breezy arrangement of "The Song Is You" recasts the standard as an infectious bossa nova. Highly recommended.