PÉROLA NEGRA

There are singers who master the technique and have real good intentions, but when it comes to singing samba songs, at best they'll do it correctly. On the other hand, there are singers who have the rhythm in their blood, even if they haven't had formal musical education. That's the case with Jovelina Pérola Negra, former housemaid, who emerged as an artist by the mid-80s. Her career lasted less than 15 years, but that was enough to establish her name among the greatest samba divas in Brazil. Jovelina died two years ago, in slight oblivion. Yet when one hears her seven albums - six of which are being put out now on a series called Bambas do Samba (on Som Livre) - it is easy to notice that her music is still fresh, thanks to the power of her interpretation and the choice of repertoire. Jovelina's first release best represents such power and was her most successful one. Recorded in 1986, Pérola Negra features three big hits: Pagode no Serrado, Boogie-Woogie da Favela and the greatest hit of all, Menina Você Bebeu. Other fine tracks are Preparado da Vovó, Água de Poço and É Isso que Eu Mereço. Top quality samba, with no side effects. (Rodrigo Faour)