Reviewed by
February 2008

Hamilton de Holanda
Íntimo
Adventure Music AM1038 2 (2007)
Total time: 40'04"

In his latest release, Hamilton de Holanda wrote that he had "wanted to record a CD like this for a long time." The idea was to focus on the mandolin alone and detach it from any other instrument. The mandolin is one of these multifaceted instruments that can bring joy, as in lively choros, as well as evoke sentimentalism. When performed by itself, a mandolin is most entrancing especially in peaceful and slow numbers.

Íntimo is Hamilton's soul searching response to studio albums and live performances. Though he recorded the album while touring, Íntimo is Hamilton alone with no other musician. He chose classics from the Brazilian songbook to share with us in this new recording. However, in addition to featuring songs by Tom Jobim, Sílvio Caldas, Noel Rosa and Guinga, among others, Hamilton also included three original compositions. The album is very relaxed and gives fans the rare opportunity to quietly enjoy such an excellent artist in his most intimate moments. Serving as bookends to a series of contemplative and serene melodies, the opening and closing tracks, "Samba do Soho" and "Feitiço da Vila," respectively, get uptempo arrangements. The remaining ten tracks are given a special treatment in what can be considered the best of serestas. Hamilton takes pride in playing each note with all of his soul. "Beatriz," "Luíza," "Chão de Estrelas," "Senhorinha," "As Rosas Não Falam" and "Amor, Saudade Amor" are lullabies with unparalleled beauty. Hamilton explains that his own "Amor, Saudade Amor," dedicated to his wife, was an "instantaneous composition" and a song he recorded on a first take with no editing. It is a gorgeous song.

Íntimo takes you deep into Hamilton's artistic abilities both as a performer and composer. It is an album to be enjoyed when you want to experience quiet music and what it can do to you through the hands of a master.

To hear sample tracks and also learn about the artist, please visit Hamilton de Holanda.