"Bossa Nova Stories" is a sultry collection of Bossa Nova classics from one who knows the music first-hand. San Paulo born pianist and vocalist Eliane Elias asserts "I lived and breathed this music; it's in my DNA". With an introduction like that, you're obliged to give it a spin.

"Bossa Nova Stories" opens with the genre's most famous composition "The Girl from Impanema" done in homage to Jobin's classic orchestral version (which may have also been the birth of Muzak). Yes, even her piano solos tip a hat to the master's legendary block chords. Yet she drifts away from a faithful retelling on the outro where the harmonies get decidedly more modern. But this is about as adventurous as it goes. "Bossa Nova Stories" is clearly a love letter to her heritage with Elias doing her best to stay true to the music's original design.

Recorded in London's Abbey Road studio with a full orchestra on all but a few tracks, the sound is lush and matches the promise of the CD's theme. Elias's bassist (and husband) Marc Johnson provides sublime support with a perfect Bossa two beat throughout. She dispenses with the orchestra on "Chega De Saudade"; however thanks to the exhilarating guitar work of Oscar Castro-Neves it's also one of the most exciting moments on the CD. Elias includes Brazilian interpretations of American standards too, including Stevie Wonder's 1973 classic "Superwoman".

The album boasts two very special guests Ivan Lins and Toots Thielemans.

It's hard not to comment on the packaging. There are no less than eight shots of Elias in the liner jacket and inside cover. A couple of them seem strangely matched for a jazz release. A woman in a black dress with high heels straddling a chair backwards... yeah, um. Is this Hip-Hop? I remind myself that it's about the music and besides, once I rip it into my iTunes collection my wife won't have to yelp in faux horror at the exploitation of it all. I'm sure Elias was having fun though. I hope. 

Anyone possessed with the slightest love for this music should secure a copy of "Bossa Nova Stories". It easily ranks among the great recordings of the music's 50 year history, with or without the photos. Musicians? This is your new iPod break music album. Highly Recommended.

Online:
http://www.elianeelias.com
Buy it on Amazon

Personnel: Marc Johnson (bass), Oscar Castro-Neves (guitar), Paulo Braga (drums), Ricardo Vogt (guitar), Toots Thielemans (harmonica), Ivan Lins (vocals), Rob Mathes (string arrangements)

Rating: ***1/2
Label: Blue Note / EMI
Release Date: January 13, 2009