"Cantiga de Longe" is definitely smooth, chill music but is also a sophisticated revelation. Firstly, "Casa Forte", the opener with that gorgeous rhythm mixing scatting vocals with frenzied percussive bossa-nova (adding Airto Moreira). It was covered by dozens of singers, notably Helen Merrill, and proves Edu Lobo's graceful style. He's the most subtle brazilian singer, a reflexive tone hiding a dreamy personality, a true poet (in a Tom Jobim's manner - look for their amazing 1981 album together!) and a master of the acoustic guitar.

Then you need to reach the last track ("Cidade Nova") to contemplate PERFECTION beyond that bare voice and solo guitar. But you must listen every song without rush before you get it. Probably, this is what thousands of psych-folks are searching for, in vain. Just one of the most beautiful brazilian songs ever.

Don't let this smooth surface fools you, Lobo's music is made of little wonders (an echoed piano, a gentle strung guitar, a whispered voice). According to the liner notes, Edu Lobo recorded "Zum-zum" in a kind of sad and crooked style, just avoiding it of being a carnival hit.