Antonio Carlos Jobim weaved a magic spell with his music the way few songwriters ever can; and he sang wonderfully as well. He truly invented Bossa Nova music in the late 1950s with João Gilberto; and for this he deserves to be in the history books forever for his fine contributions to the world of music.

The CD starts off with the smash hit "The Girl From Ipanema." Astrud Gilberto, Joao Gilberto's wife, sings the part of the vocals that are English. Although some may say that Astrud "sang flat;" her voice imparted a sense of natural sensuality and honesty that few professional singers ever achieve. The Portuguese lyrics are also beautiful even if you don't understand precisely what they mean--this song is THAT good.

Another major early hit for Jobim follows; the song entitled "Desafinado (Off Key)" shines like gold. Jobim plays piano on "Desafinado (Off Key)" while both Astrud and João Gilberto sing to perfection. Stan Getz does a great saxophone solo on this classic track, too. In addition, "Só Danço Samba" continues the romantic, enchanting early '60s Bossa Nova flavor; Jobim is on guitar and again Stan Getz accompanies the rest of the crew with a flawless saxophone performance.

"Insensatez (How Insensitive)" features Astrud Gilberto once more as she sings the lyrics to this melancholy ballad. The Marty Paich Orchestra performs a very well done musical arrangement; and Jobim also plays guitar for this number.

"Amor Em Paz (Once I Loved);" Água De Beber" and "Samba De Uma Nota Só (One Note Samba)" provide us with three magical instrumental numbers. The sophistication of the musical arrangements showcase the genius of Jobim's music and artistry; and the Brazilian beat enchants you with its captivating beauty. I love those strings and the piano on "Samba De Uma Nota Só (One Note Samba)!" SMILE

"Wave" and "Tide" boast smooth as silk arrangements by Claus Ogerman and Eumir Deodato, respectively.

The CD track set ends fittingly with Jobim's "Passarim," a number from the late 1980s. The vocals on "Passarim" reflect great forethought and good judgment. In addition, the track set proceeds in chronological order; this illustrates the development of Jobim's artistry very well.

The liner notes include an essay about Jobim and his career by Steven Ivory; and you get the song credits and the years in which they were recorded. The artwork exceeds my expectations with good use of color and a great black and white picture of Jobim on the front cover.

I highly recommend this CD for Jobim fans and fans of Bossa Nova music everywhere. If you want to get acquainted with Jobim's work but you can only choose a single CD to buy you can't go wrong with this one.

Enjoy!!!

Antonio Carlos Jobim made some of the Greatest most breathtaking Music ever. his tone and textures are timeless and so unique. his approach to creativity is amazing and the music stands the test of time. a warm soulful collection and very Ground breaking.

I had this on cassette for many years, and it's better on CD. This music is ageless, and refreshing even after a long time. As always the packaging and condition of CD were excellent, and I've enjoyed my dealings with Amazon - & their sellers.

What can I say? Antonio Carlos Jobim is as good as music gets. His music always makes me feel happy.

Gives you a nice overview of Jobim, good to have the basics in one's library for us long time collectors. For newbies you can sample and see if you want more Jobim, which I think you will.