Almost, but not quite Brasil 65 - While it would be nice to have Brasil 65 in CD format, this album is close enough to satisfy me. The only difference I detected was a minor change in phrasing in the song So Nice.
Brazil 65 DIDN T HAVE ANY HITS... - It is fair to say that the material contained on this album is pleasing enough to listen to,and maybe,in Brazil,these sides were local hits(although this is doubtful),but the fact of the matter remains that it was not until Mendes put together Brazil 66 and put out albums on the A & M label that he actually had hit records...To say the these aregreatest hits is to be deliberately deceptive...These are early sides,recorded when Mendes and his band were local artists..Sure,they sound similiar to his later,hit sides,but,afterall,it was essentially the same band with the same personel...So if you actually remember any of these obscure sides,or if you are a Mendes completist,this is something that you will want to own,HOWEVER,if you are looking for the artist at his peak then fast-forward to BRAZIL 66,and there you will find the realgreatest hits...
Great no matter what year follows Brasil - Very refreshing trip back in time -- still relevant and wonderful to listen to today. The sounds of Sergio and his group are timeless--sooo nice.
The Best of Brazil - What a great CD. I love every cut. Everyone is aware of Brasil 66 but this Brasil 65 should not be overlooked.
Sweet Memories - I was 15 when I discovered Sergio Mendes & Brazil 65. I d never heard of Sergio Mendes, but there was something about the cover that intrigued me. This was the beginning of a love afair with Brazilian music that has never faded over the years. I played the heck out of this record. I still have it, battered cover and all in my collection. After the dawn of CD s I often looked for it in record stores, but I never found it. What a jewel to discover here! (I only wish it had the original cover.) After 36 years it has lost none of its beauty and power.