Jason Miles

You can literally feel the sensations and rhythms of Brazil on Jason Miles' second Q Records release, Brazilian Nights. Listeners get much more than the rhythm of the bossa nova or the sounds of nature on this very special gem. They get an entire journey through the many moods of Brazilian music. Fresh on the heels of his award-winning triumvirate of tribute CDs, Celebrating the Music of Weather Report, A Love Affair: The Music of Ivan Lins, and To Grover, With Love, producer/arranger Jason Miles realizes his penchant for all-star players with the likes of such hitmakers as Curtis Stigers, Jane Monheit, Romero Lubambo, Jay Beckenstein, and Michael Brecker. Brazilian Nights also features several of Ivan Lins' original compositions in a new light, with fresh lyrics penned for Curtis Stigers by Miles' wife, Kathy Byalick. His smoky, seductive vocals on "It's You" lend an exotic air to the project, while guitarist Romero Lubambo weaves a tropical thread throughout the set, bringing it all together. This is a sensational song. Lubambo gets down on "Triste," a bossa nova sung by Jane Monheit, and on the very funky version of "Bahia." Top picks include the breezy "From Brooklyn to Brazil" for its relaxing smooth grooves, the Brazilian folk song "Mairzy Doats" for its exceptional arrangement, and "On the Edge for its snappy grooves and remarkable flute playing by Herbie Mann. Brazilian Nights is not quite as lush or tropical as A Love Affair: The Music of Ivan Lins, but it is filled with Jason Miles' passion for the Brazilian music genre and his adventurous natural ability to bring its sound full circle to a new generation of listeners. ~ Paula Edelstein, All Music Guide