Brasilian Skies

Masayoshi Takanaka 高中正義

1978

Why This Album Matters

Brasilian Skies, released in 1978 by Japanese guitarist Masayoshi Takanaka, transcends geographical and cultural boundaries to establish itself as a unique landmark in music. The album is notable for its innovative fusion of jazz-rock, jazz-funk, and Latin jazz elements, deeply rooted in the rich rhythmic textures of samba and bossa nova. Its ability to integrate Japanese virtuosity with the Brazilian musical soul confers upon it a prominent place and warrants special attention, being recognised as one of the 100 best records in Brazilian music. This work represents an extraordinary musical encounter, where Takanaka's vibrant guitar intertwines with authentic Brazilian percussion and melodies, creating a sound that is both exotic and familiar. The album stands out for its spontaneity and the way it evokes tropical landscapes and a free spirit, presenting a unique reinterpretation of Brazilian music through a Japanese fusion lens.

Context

Before Brasilian Skies, Masayoshi Takanaka had already established a significant career in Japan. He began his professional trajectory in progressive rock bands such as Flied Egg and Sadistic Mika Band in the early 70s. His solo career took off in 1976 with the album Seychelles, which introduced his characteristic tropical jazz-fusion sound, marked by light melodies and funky grooves. Brasilian Skies, released as his fourth studio album, represented a stylistic evolution for Takanaka, deepening his interest in global influences and, in particular, Latin music. This period also coincided with the rise of City Pop in Japan, a genre that combined elements of jazz, funk, and pop, and which resonated perfectly with Takanaka's innovative style, especially among Japanese urban youth.

Recording

The recording sessions for Brasilian Skies were distributed across studios in different locations, aiming to capture an authentic fusion of influences. Parts of the album were recorded at PolyGram Studios in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with local musicians to imbue the project with vibrant samba and bossa nova elements. Other sessions took place at Westlake Studios in Los Angeles, United States, and in Izu, Japan. Masayoshi Takanaka himself handled the album's production and mixing, working in close collaboration with recording engineers to coordinate the complexity of the intercontinental sessions. The album featured a wide range of musicians, including Sergio Carvalho and Sergio Portello from Brazil, as well as renowned session musicians such as Jeff Porcaro, Abraham Laboriel, and Greg Phillinganes. Ryuichi Sakamoto, an iconic figure in Japanese music, also contributed keyboard and string arrangements.

Songs

Brasilian Skies is predominantly instrumental, highlighting Takanaka's guitar virtuosity with extended solos and improvisations that merge with the ensemble's interplay. The album weaves a sonic tapestry that combines the fluid improvisation of jazz fusion with the syncopated grooves of samba and the melodic subtlety of bossa nova. Among the tracks, "Beleza Pula" stands out for its astute play on the Portuguese language, literally translating as 'Beauty Jumps', but being a phonetic variation of 'Beleza Pura' (Pure Beauty), capturing the relaxed and playful Brazilian spirit. The title track, "Brasilian Skies", is evocative of beaches and serenity, with a pulsating bassline and subtle percussion. Other highlights include the vibrant "Star Wars Samba", a samba-rhythm reinterpretation of John Williams' theme, and the acclaimed "Disco B", a fan favourite. The album also features a version of Benny Golson's "I Remember Clifford".

Legacy

Brasilian Skies garnered a cult following for its eclectic fusion of global sounds, being widely praised by critics. Its ability to blend Japanese jazz-fusion with Brazilian rhythms established it as a notable example of cultural exchange through music. The album is frequently described as a work that deepens the understanding of different musical cultures, capturing the essence of Brazilian music and culture through the lens of Takanaka's unique City Pop style, which evokes both the natural beauty and the urban charm of Brazil. The album's longevity and importance are evidenced by its multiple re-releases, including a 2025 vinyl edition remastered at Abbey Road Studios. Furthermore, in 2018, Takanaka undertook a 40th-anniversary tour for the album in Japan, reinforcing its iconic status. The recognition of Brasilian Skies as one of the 100 best records in Brazilian music solidifies its lasting impact and its continuing relevance on the global music scene.