Caçarola is a small Brazilian orchestra comprised of six bassists.  Exploring the musical possibilities and expressions of the instrument, Orquestra de Baixos showcases the ingenious use of electric 4, 5 and 6 strings, fretless, acoustic, and double bass.  Although all of the bassists demonstrate a technical command of their instruments, the focus here is on the creative possibilities, rather than the technical agility found on most bass-centric solo work.

“Samba do Aviåo” starts the album off with a foundation of fretless and six string accompanied by the double bass and gives you a feel for how the orquestra works.  While there is certainly a Latin element to the album, it is at times classical, jazzy and downright funky, easily moving from one form to another.  Charlie Parker’s “Billie’s Bounce” is given an all bass interpretation as is “Montreux” by Hermeto Pascoal.  Each of the 14 tracks display well thought out instrument choices, starting with a solid foundation and building upon it.  The accompanying booklet provides the line-up for each track along with the role of each instrument, allowing the listener to more easily process what he is hearing.

As a bass player Orquestra de Baixos is an aural pleasure.  The depth and texture of each track is a testament to the power of the bass.  Listening to the album it is easy to forget that all of the instruments being played are basses, making it accessible to a wide audience.  On this album Caçarolo has achieved such a high degree of creativity that you can’t help but be enveloped by their music.  9/10

More information can be found on the bands website:  http://www.cacarolaorquestradebaixos.com.br/

Stanton Lawrence([email protected])

1 Comment

1. 

   Amazing group, great album!

   Manolo on 16 November 11, 8:41am (Reply)