Samba's kick-back ebullience has always seemed more attractive than the muttering ellipses of bossa nova. But these recordings (presumably early -- zilch data) remind one once again just how great was
Gilberto's talent, up-the-sleeve vocal style and all. Classics all, from the super-familiar "Desafinado" to the favorite, "O Pato," with its quirkily enchanting backing.