Back catalogue: International

Review: For the latest release on their on-point Brasil 45s sub-label, Mr Bongo takes a trip back to 1977, and the early days of legendary fusion outfit Banda Black Rio. Both the cuts here are taken from the band's brilliant debut album, Maria Fumaca, and see them fusing Brasilian samba and jazz sounds with the righteous, dancefloor-friendly grooves of funk and disco. "Maria Fumaca" itself is a deliciously sunny and sweaty affair, with punchy horns, eyes-closed guitar solos and jazz-funk electic piano lines rising above a carnival-ready samba-funk groove. The U.S funk influence comes to the fore more on flipside "Mr Funky Samba", which sounds like Azymuth jamming with members of the T.K Disco, Philadelphia International and Salsoul house bands. Yep, it's that good.

Review: The reissue of Joao Bosco's 'O Ronco Da Cuica' alongside Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca's 'Transamazonica' captures a slice of Brazil's musical brilliance. Bosco's track, originally from his 1976 album Galos de Briga, pulses with vibrant cuica rhythms, soulful vocals, and delicate acoustic guitar. On the flip side, Adolfo's 'Transamazonica' is a stunning piece of Brazilian jazz fusion, rich with dynamic instrumentation. This release brings these timeless Brazilian gems to a new audience, reintroducing their infectious grooves and intricate musicianship.

Review: 'Imprevisto' by Bossa Tres and Ana Rosely's 'Skim Dum Dum Dum' receive well-deserved attention in their remastered reissue by Mr Bongo. Bossa Tres's track, featured as the final piece on their 1965 'Em Forma!' LP, stands out as an unmistakable Brazilian jazz classic. Opening with a dramatic intro and a hypnotic piano line, the song evolves with panned percussion and upright bass, showing the band's refined musicality honed from their early days touring jazz clubs in the USA. This 7" release marks a significant reissue of Bossa Tres's sophisticated sound in a concise format. On Side-2, Ana Rosely's 'Skim Dum Dum Dum' from 1984, originally released by RGE Discos, adds a different flavor with its infectious groove and enigmatic charm. Despite limited information about Rosely, her releases have become sought after for their rarity and musical quality. With 'Skim Dum Dum Dum,' her talent shines brightly within the unique style of Brazilian music. This remastered edition with refreshed artwork offers collectors and enthusiasts a chance to rediscover these gems of Brazilian jazz and music history.