Episode 608 is SERGIO MENDES, begun after his recent passing. Mendes did much to popularize the Brazilian sound around the world, especially in the United States. He wasn’t a pioneer in the same way as Jobim (whom he considered a mentor) and Gilberto were. But with “Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66” he hit upon a magic formula with two female singers over bossa nova players. I love this music as so evocative of a certain 1960s scene. It’s digestible and acceptable easy-listening. Mendes covered a lot of rock/pop songs in the bossa nova style, which works for a while until it doesn’t. Frankly, much of his output from the mid-1970s on is trying to fit into music trends, from disco to hip hop, or just going straight pop, like the adult contemporary hit “Never Gonna Let You Go.” An exception would be the 1992 album Brasileiro and its return to Brazilian rhythms.  

Favorite album: Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66

Favorite song: Mas Que Nada

Favorite later album: Brasileiro

Compared to expectations: same

Recommendation: The early 60s albums if you like it more jazzy, or the late 60s Brasil ’66 recordings for his classic sound. The rest you need not explore.