Orquestra Imperial
Carnaval Só Ano Que Vem
Totolo

In recent years, Moreno Veloso has taken some decisive steps out of the long shadow of his dad, Brazilian superstar Caetano Veloso. Hooking up with two friends, electronics wiz Kassin and drummer Domenico, the younger Veloso has gone for some avant-pop, even changing the name of the trio with each album, starting with Moreno+2.

The trio and even more friends began playing on Monday nights in Rio in 2002, coming up with a nostalgic mix of samba and Latin tunes, a throwback to the era of big-band samba, sometimes known as gafiera.

The multi-generational band, though, also adds some modern touches to the vintage-style tunes, such as the occasional searing electric guitar solo. A bridge to the past is singer and drummer Wilson Das Neves, a veteran sambista. Also in the loose collective are actress and singer Thalma De Freitas, Rodrigo Amarante of the band Los Hermanos, and keyboard player and composer Nelson Jacobina.

The 18-member band insouciantly tosses out easygoing samba and other Latin rhythms, with various singers taking turns out front. Most successful is De Freitas, who has a smooth alto, and Nina Becker. Some of the male vocals are likeable enough, but don't always match the richness of the band around them.

The camaraderie and friendship among the members of the band are palpable and the music has the loose-limbed feel of a project that was a labor of love - a break from their regular day jobs. If the spark of greatness seems to be missing, it also seems besides the point - the balmy bonhomie of the players makes this ongoing party an enjoyable place to be. - Marty Lipp

The artists' web site: www.orquestraimperial.com.br

CD available from cdRoots

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