Feito pra Acabar

Marcelo Jeneci

2010

Cover of Feito pra Acabar
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Why This Album Matters

Feito pra Acabar, released on 30 October 2010 by the Slap label of Som Livre records, marks Marcelo Jeneci's extraordinary debut on the Brazilian music scene. The album quickly consolidated itself as a masterpiece of contemporary pop music, praised for its ability to harmonise pop lightness with profound emotional depth. Under the production of Alexandre Kassin, the record presented a sound that blends elements of MPB, indie pop, pop rock, and even baroque pop, creating a delicate and singular musical universe. Composed of thirteen original tracks, many of them in collaboration with major names in Brazilian music, Jeneci's work stands out for its accessible poetry and engaging melodies. The vocal participation of singer Laura Lavieri on various songs adds an extra layer of lyricism and charm, making the album a landmark that introduced Jeneci as one of the most original and relevant voices of his generation.

Context

Marcelo Jeneci, born in 1982 and raised in Guaianases, in the East Zone of São Paulo, had his initial contact with music through his father, who worked repairing instruments and was a pioneer in the electrification of accordions in Brazil. His professional career began at 17, playing accordion in Chico César's band, with whom he toured Europe in the 2000s. Jeneci also performed as a backing musician for artists like Arnaldo Antunes and Erasmo Carlos, which brought him closer to important names in MPB. Before his debut album, Jeneci was already recognised as a composer, achieving success in 2008 with the song "Amado", a collaboration with Vanessa da Mata that was part of the soundtrack for the telenovela A Favorita. He also collaborated with other renowned artists such as Arnaldo Antunes, Zé Miguel Wisnik, and Luiz Tatit. The release of Feito pra Acabar placed him within the effervescent 'new MPB' scene that emerged in the early 2010s, alongside names like Tulipa Ruiz and Céu.

Recording

The production of Feito pra Acabar was handled by Alexandre Kassin, known for his innovative work in Brazilian music. Recordings took place in February 2010, and the process was described by Jeneci himself as "intense, heavy", and a "therapeutic exercise", revealing the personal depth invested in the project. The album featured a string arrangement by maestro Arthur Verocai, which contributed to the rich sound of the record. The team of musicians who participated in the album included talents such as Edgard Scandurra on guitar, Régis Damasceno on bass, Curumin on drums, and Bruno Buarque on percussion, in addition to Estevan Sinkovitz and Gustavo Ruiz on guitars. Jeneci demonstrated his versatility by playing accordion, piano, Wurlitzer, organ, sampler, and performing vocals and handclaps. The distinctive presence of Laura Lavieri's voice on several tracks was a crucial element for the work's sonic identity. The project also received sponsorship from the Natura Musical programme, which was fundamental for its realisation.

Songs

Feito pra Acabar features thirteen tracks that delve into themes such as love, sadness, sentimental conflicts, and the ephemeral nature of life, with poetic lyrics and detailed arrangements. The song "Felicidade", co-written with Chico César, emerged as the album's flagship, becoming an anthem of optimism and lightness. Other highlights include "Pra Sonhar", whose atmosphere was compared to the style of French musician Yann Tiersen, and "Copo D'água", which features accordion and guitar solos, with lyrics that explore the fragility of relationships. Tracks like "Quarto de Dormir" and "Longe", collaborations with Arnaldo Antunes, evoke the romantic musicality of Roberto and Erasmo Carlos, while "Por Que Nós?", co-written with Luiz Tatit, offers a reflection on the challenges and identity of a generation of musicians. The title track, "Feito pra Acabar", with collaboration from Zé Miguel Wisnik and Paulo Neves, concludes the album with an existential meditation on the transience of existence, inviting listeners to value each moment. The album also had songs like "Quarto de Dormir" and 'Feito pra Acabar' itself incorporated into telenovela soundtracks, expanding its reach.

Legacy

Feito pra Acabar was an undeniable success with both critics and the public, acclaimed as one of the best albums of 2010 by Rolling Stone magazine and considered a "masterpiece of contemporary Brazilian pop music" by the G1 portal. The album consolidated Marcelo Jeneci as one of "the most prominent figures in Brazilian music throughout the decade", profoundly shaping the new MPB and frequently being compared to contemporary artists such as Tulipa Ruiz. Songs like "Felicidade" and "Pra Sonhar" transcended the album, accumulating millions of views and listens on digital platforms, and becoming cult tracks among the public. The resonance of Jeneci's work continued with the inclusion of his songs in Rede Globo telenovela soundtracks even after the album's release. In celebration of its tenth anniversary in 2020, the album was re-released in a commemorative edition, reaffirming its status as one of "the most emblematic works of Brazilian music" of that decade.

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