129. Caetano Veloso — Caetano Veloso (1968)

1. We return here to Tropicalia, the genre firmly established by acts like Veloso and Os Mutantes. This album, however, feels a bit less revolutionary than the earlier Os Mutantes album we heard; incorporating more bossa nova and traditional jazz sounds without offering hooks anywhere near the level of a tune like “A Menina Menha”. I’m comforted somewhat that Caetano Veloso himself has referred to it as “amateurish and confused,” but the album itself is otherwise widely regarded as a classic. I’m just not sure it clicks with me.
2. That said: I do love that there’s a song here in tribute to Che Guevara called “Soy Loco Por Ti, America.” I mean that with no personal slant on Che or Veloso’s politics — I just think its hysterical to name a Che tribute song “I’m crazy for you, America.” You crazy for this one, Caetano.

Next up: Scott Walker (not the awful former Wisconsin Governor) offers some experimental avant-garde pop.

One Essential Song:

Listen on Spotify: