Tom Jobim
Tom Canta Vinícius
Jobim Music

The year 2000 celebrated the 20th anniversary of the death of one of the most celebrated poets and song writers in Brazilian music. Vinícius de Moraes is associated with some of the best known Bossa Nova songs ever written. With countless worldwide hits, it is probably enough to simply name one song to identify this musical icon: Garota de Ipanema (The Girl from Ipanema).

The album Tom Canta Vinícius was actually recorded live 10 years ago. At that time, Tom Jobim and his group were presenting a special show celebrating the death of his old friend Vinícius de Moraes. Jobim's band, comprised of his son Paulo Jobim, the couple Jaques and Paula Morelenbaum and Danilo Caymmi, visited some of Vinícius most beloved songs. Of course the overall tone of the album is that of sadness. It is clear from the start that Jobim truly admired his old friend and collaborator. At times, Jobim's voice is noticeably shaky. I can probably even assume that he might have cried in that show that originated this album.

The CD begins so appropriately with the Soneto da Separação (Separation Sonnet). Those verses epitomize the sadness of losing someone so dearly so quickly. From there on, the music varies from somber to happy to sad to lively. Jobim does not hide his heartfelt feelings for his partner. Tom Canta Vinícius is a hit parade that includes Insensatez (How Insensitive), Eu Sei Que Vou Te Amar (I Know I Am Going to Love You), A Felicidade (Happiness) and many other well known songs.

Of course a new Tom Jobim album is a reason to celebrate even if the overall tone of the recording is somber. The songs are not new, but they have never lost their special touch. In this historical album, they are even more special because they are sung from the heart of one of Brazil's and the world's most celebrated performer.

Copyright © 2001 Egídio Leitão