Som Quente É o das Neves

Wilson das Neves

1969

Cover of Som Quente É o das Neves
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Why This Album Matters

Released in 1969, Som Quente É o das Neves marks the solo debut of Wilson das Neves, one of the most emblematic figures of Brazilian drumming, as a leading artist. The album is a manifesto of his versatility and virtuosity, not only as an instrumentalist, but also as a visionary who transcends genres. It presents a captivating fusion of samba, soul, funk, Jovem Guarda, and Caribbean elements, creating a "som quente" (hot sound) that was vibrant and innovative for its time, with brass arrangements that stood out for their exceptional quality and impactful sonority.

Context

Before his first solo album, Wilson das Neves was already an established name behind the scenes of Brazilian music. From the late 1940s and early 1950s, he trained with percussionist Edgar Nunes Rocca, also known as Bituca, and solidified his reputation as one of Brazil's most sought-after studio drummers. His extensive career includes collaborations on over a thousand albums and with hundreds of renowned artists, such as Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Roberto Carlos, Tim Maia, and Elis Regina, for whom he played drums on the LP Elza Soares – Baterista: Wilson das Neves in 1968. The transition to a solo project in 1969 reflects the recognition of his unique talent and the musical effervescence of the era, where artists like him sought to explore new sounds and take on creative prominence.

Recording

The album Som Quente É o das Neves was produced by Roberto Menescal, a prominent figure in bossa nova and MPB. The arrangements, which are one of the record's major highlights, were undertaken by maestro Erlon Chaves, known for his mastery in creating rich and engaging sonic textures. The recording featured a select group of studio musicians, many of whom came from the former Philips record label, who contributed to the polished, yet energetic, sound of the work.

Songs

Som Quente É o das Neves is notable for the diversity of its repertoire, which reflects Wilson das Neves' ability to navigate different styles. The album features successful reinterpretations such as Jorge Ben's "Zazueira", a samba-rock classic, and Roberto and Erasmo Carlos' "Se Você Pensa", representing the effervescence of Jovem Guarda. Furthermore, the record explores native easy listening with tracks such as "Sambaloo" and "Tio Macrô", both by Dom Salvador and Arnoldo Medeiros, and incorporates international soul influences with the vibrant "California Soul", demonstrating the breadth of his musical taste and talent. The inclusion of Caetano Veloso's "Irene" also exemplifies the album's openness to different strands of Brazilian popular music.

Legacy

Since its release, Som Quente É o das Neves has cemented Wilson das Neves' image as a complete artist, going beyond his reputation as a legendary drummer. The album is considered a "breakbeat classic" by many and has been recognised by collectors and DJs for its quality and relevance within the Brazilian music and funk/soul scene. Its importance is attested by re-releases in different countries, such as Japan in 2001 and 2015, and an unofficial edition in Russia in 2020. Acclaimed for its innovative fusion of rhythms and the excellence of its brass arrangements, this work remains a landmark in Wilson das Neves' discography and in Brazilian music, influencing generations of musicians and lovers of great music.

Rankings

Tracks

Credits

Arranged By

Erlon Chaves

Producer

Roberto Menescal

Music By

Perry Hettel

Technician

Ary Carvalhaes, Célio Martins

Layout

Lincoln

Liner Notes

Ronaldo Boscoli

Photography By

Johnny Salles

Books

Analyses

Discogs

Som Quente É o das Neves – Discogs

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