When New Orleans met Brazil is one way to describe this original blend of New Orleans Funk/Jazz and Brazilian Samba/Bossa. When Samba met funk is another. An all original album, spring features the vocals and guitar of the groups leader, Blake Amos, the exciting saxophone sounds of Tim Green, and the swinging samba percussion of Allen Frost.
The Saudade project started out of Blakes travels and studies of Brazilian music in Salvador, Bahia, where he was studying the similarities of the music of Brazil and New Orleans. When he realized how similar the rhythms, food and lifestyles of these sister cities were, it was only natural to capture those flavors and blend them into a kind of samba funk gumbo. The result is Saudade and spring, the group's first release.
Blake is a lifelong resident of New Orleans, as are the other two members performing on this CD. They grew up hearing the sounds of funk, jazz, soul and second line being played in the homes, clubs and streets of this musical city.
Blake who is often mistaken to be Brazilian by visiting Brazilians, has recently been nominated by Offbeat magazine to be the best new artist in the world beat category. Blake has traveled the world performing his music and is currently enjoying his co-authored song Suddenly You on Ed Motta's CD, Segundo Manual. Blake's main influences are Jobim, Gilberto Gil, and Djavan but writes original music and lyrics.
Tim Green is absolutely one of the most talented and versatile saxophonists in New Orleans and the world. Tim has played and recorded with Peter Gabriel, Bruce Hornsby, Indigo Girls and Cubanismo among others. Tim consistently amazes his listeners.
Allen Frost, the executive producer of the spring CD, brings his knowledge of diverse Brazilian rhythms to the music, playing congas as well as other Brazilian percussion. Allen has trained in both Cuba and Brazil and in the rich percussive traditions of New Orleans.
The band has honed its skills as a group by consistently performing in the clubs of the French Quarter over the past three years. Information on live performances and booking can be obtained by contacting info@blakeamos.com or by calling (504) 258-9010.
axe'
Blake Amos & Saudade
Track List:
1. Spring
2. My Name
3. Ecstacy
4. My Friend
5. Reaching Out
6. Sand or Snow
7. SalvadOrleans
8. Fa Sho'
9. No Doubt
Suggested CDs:
Other Genres:
