Gal Costa: India Vinyl LP

Clutch reissue of Gal Costa’s rare 4th album, originally released in 1973 on Philips. Her Tropicalia classic 1969 self-titled album retained elements of bossa nova laced with folk, psych and fiercely political overtones. Índia however, if the front cover didn’t tip you off, is a more vibey, secular affair. Gal’s addictive croon comes through sensually on a handful of relaxed, bossa-indebted tunes (“Presente Cotidiano,” “Da Maior Importância,” “Passarinho”), but the record shines brightest when she brings the tropical funk on “Relance,” opener “Milho Verde” and “Pontos De Luz,” which Kaytranada chopped up to great effect on “Lite Spots” from his breakthrough XL debut. Gal’s sweet version of Tom Jobim’s bossa nova classic-cum-worldwide jazz standard “Desafinado” caps off the record in fine style. Original copies are either impossible to find or prohibitively expensive, enter Mr. Bongo, who’ve been blessing record nerds with crucial reissues like this from Brazil & beyond for 25 years now. Get it before it’s gone.

• deluxe gatefold sleeve
• includes printed insert
• music label: Mr. Bongo 2017

reviewed by mayor of hounslow 09/2017