The wise digger knows not to ignore anything on the 70s underground jazz label Muse. And any drum aficionado knows better than to ignore anything Dom Um Romao ever touched. So when the two coincide, well, ignorance should not be a factor. This is the first solo LP Dom dropped stateside after an all-star career in Brazil and as a member of Weather Report. There are a few important cuts here, perhaps headed up by "Cinnamon Flower(1)," a jazz-dance favorite later covered by Charlie Rouse (and sampled discreetly by… nah, I can't blow up their spot like that). The batucada blast that is "Braun-Blek-Blau(2)" is certainly another candidate for the jazz-dance fave label, four minutes of insane overdubbed percussion that will ignite any baby powder-covered dancefloor. I'll also point out a superb version of "Ponteio(3)," a Edu Lobo composition that should be familiar already, but if not, one listen and it will be. The remaining 3 cuts are likable amalgams of US fusion flavors and Dom's southern hemisphere stylings, not surprising given the cast of musicians involved (Joe Beck, Stanley Clarke, Mauricio Smith, Sivuca, Donato, etc.). Check "Dom's Theme(4)" and "Adeus Maria Fulo(5)." Extensive liner notes by Gary Giddins make this a sureshot for the heads.

reviewed by monk