Bossa Eyes

“…The popularity of bossa has waxed and waned over the years, but in 2010 it promises to make a Victorian comeback, thanks to this lovely and gentle new CD. On these 12 well-chosen tracks, Melbourne’s Emma Sidney mixes famous Jobim standards with much-loved melodies like “Tangerine”, and even a slow, haunting Kate Bush song, “Man With The Child In His Eyes.” Emma’s own delicious “Catching The Wave” ought to be the theme music for a surf doco, it’s that good.

Bossa nova (in Brazilian it means the new thing) happened when musicians in Rio merged their own swaying samba beat with the cool melodic stylings of jazzmen like Getz and especially Lester Young. Here, Emma’s supporting cast, including pianist Todd Sidney and guitarist Nic Lam, remain faithful to the highly sensual spirit of bossa. On two tracks, Victorian music legend Bob Sedergreen makes a welcome return to the studio.

The glamour photography of Emma is just one more plus for this new release. It’s perfect for late night listening when romance is a real possibility.”