Antonio Adolfo frees the spirit with new release “Oba (O Bafo da Onca)”

On his new single, titled “Oba (O Bafo da Onca),” Grammy-nominated pianist, arranger, and composer Antonio Adolfo takes you straight to the heart of Brazilian Carnaval, no passport necessary. Played by his sizzling Brazilian Jazz octet, this tasty instrumental is a lively, full-bodied tribute to the nation’s favorite musical forms. “Oba” is a reference to Carnaval, and it is Carnaval. The track crackles with rhythmic intensity, harmonic shades, and melodic humor. It’s the type of song that almost dances out of the speakers, that manages to capture the infectious spirit of the streets and the spontaneous joy of a bloco in full swing.

Setting this record apart, beyond the masterful touch of Adolfo at the piano, is the overall musicianship throughout the ensemble. Each musician brings their fire to the piece, darting in and out of the arrangement with instinctive control. Adolfo’s version is a lesson in control and freedom. He pays tribute to the roots of Brazilian Carnaval music while also allowing it the space to stretch, swing, and surprise. There are opulent chords that cascade with warmth, horns that shoot up like confetti, exuding percussion, and that tribal alembic of beats and handclaps that send you flinging nonstop from floor to floor.

“Oba (O Bafo da Onca)” feels like an invitation to dance and to rejoice. It is a celebration of culture, joy, and musical mastery. This track could not have been made by any artists other than the explosion of Brazilians on the recording. For fans of Brazilian jazz, old and new, this is a raucous reminder of the way rhythm and soul speak completely beyond language and borders. With Adolfo and his octet maintaining a perfect balance between innovation and tradition, the single is the latest in a line of shining moments in the musician’s esteemed history.