Review by Kostas Koronios

Continental Bossa Nova, the latest album by Montepulciano, is a stunning tribute to the genre that originated in Brazil in the late 1950s. The album features 11 tracks that showcase the band's virtuosity and their deep understanding of the rhythms and melodies of Bossa Nova.

From the opening notes of "Samba de Amor," it's clear that Montepulciano is a band that knows how to groove. The rhythm section lays down a solid foundation while the guitar and piano weave intricate melodies around each other. The vocals, sung in Portuguese by lead singer Maria Santos, are smooth and sultry, perfectly capturing the essence of Bossa Nova.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Desafinado," a classic Bossa Nova tune made famous by João Gilberto. Montepulciano's version is faithful to the original but adds their own unique touches, including a beautiful saxophone solo by guest musician Antonio Carlos Jobim.

Other highlights include "Aguas de Marco," a duet between Santos and guest vocalist Caetano Veloso, and "Chega de Saudade," a lively tune that showcases the band's improvisational skills.

Summary by Kostas Koronios

Continental Bossa Nova is a must-have for fans of the genre and a great introduction for those who are new to it. Montepulciano's love and respect for Bossa Nova shines through in every note, making this album a true gem.