JORGE BEN (1969)

By its self-titled name and the number of hits, one might think that Jorge Ben Jor's sixth album is a greatest hits collection of his career. But don’t be fooled. Released in 1969, the album was responsible for reviving the singer and songwriter's career, which had begun with tremendous success but had been releasing less prominent albums. This landmark in his career returns to shelves as part of the “Classics on Vinyl” collection from Polysom, in 180-gram vinyl.

Recorded between Scatena Studios (São Paulo) and CBD (Rio de Janeiro), “Jorge Ben” consists of 11 tracks, all written by him, and was produced by Manoel Barenbein. The arrangements were handled by José Briamonte, except for “Barbarella” and “Descobri que Eu Sou um Anjo,” which were done by Rogério Duprat. With a sound "based on opulent and vigorous rhythmic ingenuity," as defined by Armando Pittigliani in the sleeve notes, and simple, straightforward lyrics, this album features some of Jorge Ben's biggest hits. Among them are “Cadê Tereza,” “País Tropical,” “Bebete Vaobora,” “Que Pena (Ela Já Não Gosta Mais de Mim),” “Take It Easy My Brother Charles,” and “Charles, Anjo 45.”

In these recordings, Jorge Ben was accompanied for the first time by Trio Mocotó, consisting of Fritz “Escovão” (cuíca), João “Parahyba” (percussion and drums), and Nereu Gargalo (pandeiro).