"Ao Vivo no Auditório Ibirapuera" is a captivating live album that captures the magical chemistry between two of the most respected pianists in the jazz world, André Mehmari and Mário Laginha. Recorded in July 2012 at the prestigious Auditório Ibirapuera in São Paulo, this album was released on August 2, 2013, under the Estúdio Monteverdi label, with distribution by Tratore. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, featuring 12 instrumental tracks that blend the rich traditions of Brazilian jazz with the elegance of European jazz influences.
The collaboration between Mehmari and Laginha is a testament to their shared musical language and deep understanding of each other's styles. The album opens with "Corale," a piece composed by Mehmari, setting the tone for the intimate and expressive performances that follow. Standout tracks include "Lagoa da Conceição," a beautiful and melodic piece that showcases the duo's harmonic sensibilities, and "Hoje Não É o Primeiro Dia," a longer, more intricate composition that allows both pianists to explore a wide range of dynamics and textures.
Other highlights include "The Song Is You," a classic jazz standard that the duo reinterprets with freshness and vitality, and "O Mantra de Miguel," a piece that reflects the spiritual and contemplative side of Mehmari's compositional style. The album concludes with "Fado," a nod to the traditional Portuguese music that Laginha is deeply rooted in, providing a fitting end to this remarkable musical journey.
"Ao Vivo no Auditório Ibirapuera" is a celebration of friendship, collaboration, and the universal language of jazz. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of André Mehmari and Mário Laginha in a live setting, where their improvisational skills and deep musical connection shine brightly. Whether you're a longtime fan of Brazilian jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout