Bendito of Santa Cruz cover

Bendito of Santa Cruz

Ivo Perelman · 1997

50 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of Brazilian rhythms and avant-garde jazz, merging improvisation with a deeply emotive atmosphere.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Macumba — This track exemplifies the album's rhythmic complexity and showcases Perelman's skillful improvisation amidst rich Brazilian percussion.
  • →
    Anglo — In 'Anglo', the interplay between saxophone and bass creates a captivating dialogue that highlights the album's thematic exploration of cultural identity.
  • →
    Roses — 'Roses' features a haunting melody that balances lyrical beauty with intense improvisational passages, encapsulating the emotional depth of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of Brazilian rhythms and avant-garde jazz creates a unique sound that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended improvisational sections where the saxophone often takes center stage, creating a fluid and dynamic sound.
  • Several tracks incorporate traditional Brazilian rhythms, which are interwoven with avant-garde jazz elements, enhancing the overall texture.
  • The sequencing alternates between more frenetic pieces and slower, contemplative moments, allowing for a varied emotional landscape.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • improvisational exploration with depth
  • vibrant rhythms for active listening
  • emotive atmosphere for reflection
  • short interludes enhancing cohesion

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking straightforward, predictable sounds
  • prefer structured song formats

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1997, 'Bendito of Santa Cruz' is Ivo Perelman's third album, following his earlier works that established his voice in the avant-garde jazz scene. This record marks a pivotal moment as Perelman began to solidify his unique sound, intertwining Brazilian musical elements with free jazz improvisation.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Bendito of Santa Cruz (take 1) 1:42
  • 2 Macumba 9:26
  • 3 Anglo 7:21
  • 4 Roses 6:40
  • 5 Ze do vale 5:38
  • 6 Cego 4:42
  • 7 Cana fita 4:14
  • 8 Bandeirantes 6:01
  • 9 The Lion 3:07
  • 10 Bendito of Santa Cruz (take 2) 1:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata