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Album reviews Music

GILBERTO GIL

Rating: NNN


It would be hoping for too much to expect Gilberto Gil to conjure up the joie de vivre of his tropicalia recordings from 40 years ago, but there is a charming sense of whimsy in the playful music of Banda Larga Cordel (roughly, “broad band pamphlet”). This is achieved despite the weighty subject matter, which deals with the cultural and artistic challenges posed by technological advancements in information transmission.

If there’s one thing that’s remained consistent with Gil, he’s always had a special knack for turning profound statements – current socio-?political events, affairs of the heart – into hummable and even danceable tunes.

That’s why the dreadlocked Gil, who turns 66 today (Thursday, June 26), is still releasing records while serving as Brazil’s minister of culture.

Gilberto Gil and Banda Larga kick out the jams at Massey Hall Friday (June 27).

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