While falling short of his best efforts, there's quite a bit to recommend this film soundtrack, which includes the participation of
Maria Bethania (in particularly fine form) and the intimate voice of
Nara Leao. Skip the ponderous orchestral interludes and go directly to
Buarque's "Quando O Carnaval Chegar," "Caçada," and "Mambembe,"
Bethania's performance on
Buarque's "Bom Conselho," and the charming renditions of songs by 1920s and '30s composers Assis Valente and Lamartine Babo. ~ David Rumpler