Plays Vasco Martins

Bau has been a behind-the-scenes stalwart of Cape Verdean music ever since Cesaria Evora first put the islands on the international music map. He was her musical director in the mid-90s, and as a guitarist and composer he has appeared on CDs by a myriad of Cape Verdean artists – from Cesaria herself to the Mindel band.

The erudite music he has released on six solo albums is predominantly instrumental. As is this CD, which is comprised of delicate guitar, cavaquinho (lute) and violin renditions of compositions by Cape Verdean-Portuguese classical guitarist Vasco Martins. The pieces are quiet and reflective, with wistful guitar melodies floating over a background of light strings and keys. At best the sound is stirring and atmospheric. ‘Digene, which sweeps out of the speakers like a Sirocco from the Sahara, is filled with African voices and Islamic modes. And the classical guitar and Hammond organ on ‘Tarazed’ are imbued with nostalgic melancholy – the saudade that is so characteristic of Portuguesespeaking peoples. At its worst – on pieces like ‘Pincelada’ – the music is sentimental and even syrupy. But, overall, the CD showcases the superb playing that has made Bau the session guitarist of choice for a generation of Cape Verdean musicians.