Lareo, Maria Puga
My Kete, 2024, CD
Instrument: Female Vocals
Issue: 30.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Latin
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 75
O’s Notes: Maria has warm vocal tones that flow nicely over the bossa nova beats from the large ensemble conducted by Nan Schwartz. We liked the orchestrated arrangement of “Make Someone Happy”, and the rich saxophone accompaniment from Bob Sheppard on “We’ll Be Together Again” & “Spring”. There’s a dose of R&B courtesy of bassist Mike Valerio on “At The End Of The Night”, before they relax with a little Brazilian twist on the finale featuring guitarist Leo Amuedo. My Universe is a captivating, soothing session.
Publicist: Kari-On Productions