A casual invitation by harmonicist Toots Thielemans led to a Scandinavian vacation for Elis Regina in 1969, during one for the happiest periods of her all too often chaotic life – and it shows on this excellent recording – one of her most memorable.

Elis’s initial love affair with Europe kindled an energy and vitality that set her course for the remarkable career, which was to follow. And although this is correctly titled as a ‘Toots Thielemans’ recording, Elis shows an astonishing range of texture and expression here, augmented by Thielemans’ world-class talent: playing harmonica, humming, whistling – even singing on some tracks.  

These two are a perfect match for this mostly Bossa set: Jobim’s ‘Wave’, Roberto Menescal’s ‘Voce’ and ‘O Barquinho’ and a definitive verson of the title track anchor this delightful dozen, with Elis swinging through ‘Canto de Ossanha’ and Toots likewise with a few signature songs of his own: ‘Honeysuckle Rose’ and an original for the occasion, with ‘Five for Elis’.

From this point one, Elis would become Brazil’s – and then the world’s – best known Brazilian singer and the relaxed moments of this gently swinging and sometimes introspective album would be rare. And although it was recorded in icy Sweden – far removed from tropical Brazil, this album remains a Bossa classic.  

For the track listing, audio clips and to order this CD click here.