Following Mr Bongo’s reissue of the highly sought-after 1971 Ritual album by Nico Gomez And His Afro Percussion Inc., the UK-label and record shop has also recently re-released another rare gem from the Belgium orchestra bandleader, titled Soul Of Samba.

Originally released in 1972, this superb twelve-track recording falls right in line with the album’s title, blending together a mix of Samba grooves, Bossa Nova, Brazilian and European jazz influences. The record also includes two massive jazz dance cuts in “Rio” and “Aquarela”, as well as the breezy Latin-funk track “Agua”. Renditions of Brazilian/Jobim classics “Desafinado”, “The Girl From Ipanema”, and “One Note Samba” also make their way onto to this timeless recording.

Even though Gomez is known mostly for the Ritual recording due to notable DJ favorites “Lupita” and “Baila Chibiquiban”, this album ranks right up their with his most masterful work.

Nico Gomez — ‘Soul Of Samba’
(Originally released: 1972 / Trio Records)
(Reissued: 2022 / Mr Bongo)

1. Aquarela
2. Tristeza
3. Desafinado
4. Agua
5. Orpheu Negro
6. The Girl From Ipanema
7. One Note Samba
8. Saudade Do Rio
9. Rio
10. Little Boat
11. Vôce E Eu
12. Din! Din! Din!

BUY RECORD

• Brazilian
• Jazz Dance
• Reissue