The Brazilian Project

The bassist and composer Gabriel Espinosa brings his Mexican heritage to these worldly ideas that enlists a large cast for the 10 rich tracks.

"Gabriela" opens with André Lopez's flowing keys complementing the rich brass and dreamy climate, and "Caramello" follows with Mafran Maracana's frisky percussion adding much to the rich textures and warm melodies.

The halfway spot belongs to "Euro 12", where Josue Lopez's well-timed flute suits the colorful dynamics, while "Paz" recruits Rafael Barata's cozy drums and Felipe Silveira's intimate keys that stir the soul gently.

"Klavier Latino" resides near the end and makes great use of Joabe Reis' skilled trombone amid Giovani Malini's fluid guitar, and "Morning Breeze" exits with Daniel Freire's eloquent bari sax and Hugo Maciel's electric bass helping inject much beauty.

This is Espinosa's 8th solo album, and it's a cross-cultural collaboration that embraces bossa nova ideas, no lack of rhythm and a global jazz appeal that you're not going to hear anywhere else.