August 4, 2020

Gal Costa & Caetano Veloso - Domingo [1967]


Domingo was the beginning of the careers of two Brazilian legends, Gal Costa and Caetano Veloso. Undoubtedly influenced by the definitive bossa nova record, João Gilberto's Chega de Saudade, Domingo is another arguably perfect example of the Brazilian genre. Veloso and Costa's voices are like a perfect summer breeze: soft, relaxing, and beautiful. The tunes are short and simple, with arrangements that usually feature a classic bossa nova style guitar accompanied by woodwinds or strings. Those who crave some of the psychedelic sounds that these artists would embrace later in their career should look elsewhere but at 31 minutes, Domingo is an album that is remarkably easy to return to and appreciate in its totality. A great starting point for those wondering what bossa nova is all about.