Cru is his second solo album. Recorded in France, it is defiantly sparse compared to the layered sounds of DJ Dolores or Brazilian hip hop. Seu Jorge has a voice so laconic and gravelly that every time he gets to the end of a phrase without dropping off you feel he has beaten the odds. Most of the tracks on Cru are dominated by the simple combination of voice, guitar and often the distinctive sound of the cuica drum (think rainforest bird calls).

The stand out track -- and one Seu Jorge will still be singing in 30 years -- is 'Tive Razão'... an instant classic: simple catchy tune, sing along chorus and passion in every pore. There is also a video featuring Bill Murray (see the Womex profile of Seu Jorge) This track was featured on Favela Chic's superb Postonove 3 compilation, and for me, stole the show against some very stiff competition. The connection runs deeper because Favela Chic founder Gringo da Parada produced this album for his new label Fla Flu Prod.

Other highlights on the album include the stripped down statement of pride in his favela origins, 'Eu Seu Favela' (I Am Favela). Just a vocal and a simple samba beat as Seu Jorge explores the social aspects of the favela. Elvis cover 'Don't' is the one song in English, a gentle take on the song which ends up sounding Brazilian anyway with his accented English and traditional percussion.

On the whole, this album is a grower, none of the other tracks are in the same league as 'Tive Razão', but when you need music of great simplicity and style, this will hit the mark.

Cru (BZACD004) is released on ether music in the UK for Fla Flu Prod

Seu Jorge will be playing the Royal Festival Hall, London on 22 April as part of La Linea festival.

Links:
Review of Postonove 3
www.seujorge.com
www.ethermusic.net
www.favelachic.com