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15 October 2003
Various Artists, Fado: Exquisite Passion (Narada)
Because there is something so intrinsically dramatic about Portuguese Fado music, the title of this stellar compilation, Fado: Exquisite Passion is more than just hyperbole. There is an exquisite passion at work with Fado, commonly referred to as the "blues" of Portugal. There is a sense of true emotional torturedness in nearly every Fado song, especially numbers sung by the four talented "Fadistas" on this collection. With the simple musical accompaniment -- a Portuguese "guitarra" being the primary instrument -- the songs on Fado: Exquisite Passion are excellent showcases for the women's soaring, pained vocals. This is also an ideal "primer" to those curious about Fado; you're not likely to find a stronger modern-era compilation. Excellent contributions come from Mafalda Arnauth and rising star Mariza, who -- along with Lisbon superstar Misia, (oddly missing from this recording) -- has been dubbed "heiresses" to the late Amalia Rodrigues, the unrivaled queen of Fado. While all the singers here are strong, Rodrigues's status remains unchallenged. From her mournful, "Com Que Vo" to the earthy "Foi Deus", she will, now and forever, be the defining voice of Fado.
— Nicole Pensiero
.: posted by Editor 11:01 AM
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