A Twist Of Jobim

Review by Scott Yanow | allmusic

The debut release from the I.E. label (which is connected with Polygram) is an unusual multi-artist tribute to the music ofAntonio Carlos Jobim. Some of his tunes are made funky (but in a melodic and tasteful way), while others become quiet (but still passionate) ballads. The treatments are all jazz-oriented, and there is plenty of solo space for the likes of guitaristLee Ritenour (in one of his finest jazz efforts), pianists Dave Grusin and Alan Pasqua, altoist Eric Marienthal, bassistChristian McBride, and tenor saxophonist Ernie Watts. Plus, there are guest spots for Herbie Hancock (an excellent acoustic piano solo on "Stone Flower"), the sopranos of Art Porter (on "Dindi") and Steve Tavaglione, the Yellowjackets(who team up with Ritenour on "Mojave"), singer El DeBarge ("Dindi") and the vocal duo of Al Jarreau and Oleta Adams("Waters of March" and a lightweight rendition of "The Girl from Ipanema"). Nearly every song holds one's interest, the melodies are celebrated, and the fresh interpretations contain more than their share of surprises.

01. Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin / Water To Drink (Agua De Beber) 
02. Eric Marienthal, Dave Grusin, & Lee Ritenour / Captain Bacardi 
03. El Debarge & Art Porter / Dindi 
04. Al Jarreau & Oleta Adams / Waters Of March 
05. Dave Grusin / Bonita 
06. Herbie Hancock, Paulinho Da Costa, & Steve Tavaglione / Stone Flower 
07. Lee Ritenour & Eric Marienthal / Favela 
08. Alan Pasqua & Ernie Watts / Children's Games 
09. Ernie Watts & Christian McBride / Lamento 
10. Yellowjackets & Lee Ritenour / Mojave 
11. Al Jarreau & Oleta Adams / Girl From Ipanema