What makes Magico by Egberto Gismonti notable?

Magico is significant for its pioneering blend of genres that has influenced countless artists within the Latin jazz sphere. The album received critical acclaim, showcasing Gismonti's unique ability to bridge cultural divides through music, which helped elevate Brazilian jazz on an international scale. Released in 1980, Magico was Egberto Gismonti's fourth studio album, following his 1978 record 'Dança das Cabeças'. By this time, Gismonti had established himself as a prominent figure in the Brazilian jazz scene, known for his virtuosic guitar work and innovative compositions that fused traditional Brazilian music with contemporary jazz elements.

Magico works well if you're into intricate rhythmic explorations, captivating late-night listening and meditative soundscapes for reflection.

How many songs are on Magico?

Magico has 5 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Magico

Egberto Gismonti · 1980

43 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of Brazilian rhythms and intricate melodies, merging jazz improvisation with classical influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bailarina — This expansive track features intricate guitar melodies intertwined with lush harmonies, showcasing Gismonti's technical prowess and compositional depth.
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Mágico — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its enchanting rhythms and lyrical themes, reflecting Gismonti's connection to Brazilian folklore.
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Silence — In this piece, Gismonti explores dynamics and space, creating a meditative atmosphere that highlights his ability to convey emotion through simplicity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

Gismonti's blend of Brazilian rhythms and jazz improvisation creates a distinctive sound that rewards repeated listens.

What we noticed

Each track showcases Gismonti's virtuosic guitar work, often incorporating intricate fingerpicking and complex chord progressions.
The use of varied instrumentation, including piano and woodwinds alongside guitar, adds layers of texture to the compositions.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

intricate rhythmic explorations
captivating late-night listening
meditative soundscapes for reflection
immersive journeys through sound

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
seek concise, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1980, Magico was Egberto Gismonti's fourth studio album, following his 1978 record 'Dança das Cabeças'. By this time, Gismonti had established himself as a prominent figure in the Brazilian jazz scene, known for his virtuosic guitar work and innovative compositions that fused traditional Brazilian music with contemporary jazz elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Chico Buarque· Hermeto Pascoal· Milton Nascimento