Musicians: Elin (vocals), Luiz Simas (piano), Gustavo Dantas (guitar), Bina Coquet (guitar), Gustavo Amarante (bass), Itaiguara Brandao (bass), Sergio Brandao (bass), Ricky Sebastian (drums), Helio Schiavo (drums), Adriano Santos (drums), Mathias Kunzli (percussion), Pedro Ito (percussion), Urbano Sanchez (percussion), Onel Mulet (flute), Keith Underwood (flute), Erik Friedlander (cello), Anat Cohen (clarinet), Harry Allen (tenor saxophone), Claudio Roditi (trumpet and flugelhorn), Alan Ferber (trombone), Tom Varner (French horn), and Hendrik Meurkens (vibraphone)
Review: Elin’s journey began in her hometown in Sweden, where she listened to her parents' record collection, which luckily included some Antonio Carlos Jobim recordings. Inspired by what she heard, she delved deeper into music and learned all the jazz standards.
When her family moved to the United States, Elin (Kathleen Clelia Elin Melgarejo) attended the University of Florida and won a scholarship to go to Brazil, where she could learn Portuguese and experience Brazilian jazz.
She later studied in the jazz program at the University of Miami and performed in the clubs on South Beach. She has made her way to New York City, with all her experiences coming together to create her debut CD, Lazy Afternoon.
The singer wastes no time, making a big statement with the opening of “Fascinating Rhythm.” Elin gives the well-traveled song a surprising twist, teaming it with the Brazilian classic “Telefone.” It’s a toe-tappin’, finger-snappin’ affair of the first order. Elin gets good help throughout the album from her large band, which includes Claudio Roditi on trumpet and flugelhorn and pianist Luiz Simas.
Elin, who sings in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, also shows that she can do ballads. The title track is lush and steamy. She also delivers a good version of the difficult “Lush Life.” She wisely chooses to keep to a straight-ahead rendition.
The CD wouldn’t be complete with a Jobim number. Elin has chosen “Bonita.” It’s got a cool, easy vibe, and Elin is careful maintain the mood throughout.
The singer also contributes several originals to the CD, including “I Love New York.” Elin explains in the liner notes that she worked in the World Trade Center, and this is her tribute to the city.
Overall, Lazy Afternoon is an impressive debut.
Tracks: Fascinating Rhythm, Lazy Afternoon, I Love New York, Aquarela do Brasil, Vera Cruz, Bonita, La Luna, Lush Life, Doralice, Sugar, and Casa Forte
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