Obrigado, Rosa!

(Pictured: Chico Pinheiro, Rosa Passos, me, Paulo Paulelli)

In São Paulo recently, I had the opportunity to see the opening night of the new Rosa Passos show, which is a tribute to Elis Regina. To the intimate setting of Teatro FECAP, this subtle and engaging singer with a voice of velvet brought her interpretations of diverse songs associated with Elis, things like "Só Tinha De Ser Com Você," "Folhas Secas," "Bala Com Bala," and "O Trem Azul." The band was Fabio Torres, Paulo Paulelli, and Celso de Almeida, which means stellar, world-class musicianship, alongside a fine horn section that included Vinicius Dorin (who looks a lot like Bob Sheppard). Outstanding, imaginative arrangements by Fabinho and Paulelli. For those who are only accustomed to hearing Rosa sing softly, you'll be astonished when she really brings the volume! What a dynamic range she has. It was an unforgettable night, and a thrill to be able to visit with Rosa after the concert! This band had just finished recording a record of ballads for Telarc, which will be out soon. I'll be waiting in line!