Amalia Rodrigues [DRG] (CD - 1997)

Personnel: Amália Rodrigues (vocals); Jaime Santos, Santos Moreira (guitar).

Released by the DRG label in 1997, this compilation presents 20 tracks by the legendary Portuguese singer Amalia Rodrigues. The most revered artist in the melancholy fado style, Rodrigues became an international star in the 1950s and '60s, and that highly successful phase of her career is featured here. "Fado De Saudade" typifies her spare, lilting, and mournful aesthetic, with Rodrigues's voice sounding both powerfully assured and seemingly on the verge of tears at the same time. AMALIA RODRIGUES also includes "Coimbra," a classic Portuguese tune that became a staple in her repertoire, and "Fado Xuxu," which trades typically spare instrumentation for lush, orchestral backing. Like Billie Holiday and Edith Piaf, Rodrigues conveyed longing and sadness in a way that few singers are capable of, and this set admirably spotlights her considerable talent. Although THE ART OF AMALIA RODRIGUES is probably the best introduction to her music, this disc is another fine purchase for those building a Rodrigues album collection. minimize