Marcos Valle

Marcos Valle – “Contrasts” (Far Out Recordings, FAR0082DLPX). Valle’s 2003 set is a masterclass in evolution: a bossa pioneer folding his classic melodic instincts into sleek, early‑2000s production. The result is a glossy, hook‑rich blend of samba, soul and lounge‑leaning nu‑jazz, where airy vocals and Rhodes progressions dance with crisp drum programming and basslines built for intimate dance floors. It’s a record about bridges—between Rio and London, analogue warmth and contemporary sheen—delivered by one of Brazil’s most versatile songwriters. On vinyl, the arrangements bloom: strings shimmer, guitar filigree sparkles, and Valle’s understated charisma seals everything with effortless cool. Elegant, romantic and quietly funky—an audiophile friendly doorway into modern MPB from a legend who never stopped moving forward.