Os Mutantes – Haih Or Amortecedor
September 8th, 2009
ANTI-
Score: 7.9
All of the greats who have been fortunate enough to build enduring careers have been hindered by this same longevity. Neil Young, Miles Davis, and U2 have written as many, if not more, dismal records than seminal ones. Neil’s Fork In The Road is as apt a testament as any to how sensational can shift into senescent with the passage of time. Haih Or Amortecedor is proof that Os Mutantes is an exception to the rule. On second thought, it’s a hell of lot simpler to avoid a decline in quality when quarter-century sabbaticals are permitted. The latest from the Tropicalia pioneers is their first effort since 1974 and features only one (Sérgio Dias) original member. Despite the roster discrepancies, the band has not lost a step since Tudo Foi Feito Pelo Sol as winsome, dizzying instrumentation abounds. This is likely Os Mutantes’ least experimental album and it does not suffer from it in the least, constructing a sturdy foundation from the now 7-piece’s assets instead of frivolously exploring foreign territory. Variety is now covert as opposed to overt, as slight yet distinctive spins are perceived by assessing the whole picture rather than the pigments standing side by side. ‘Teclar’ pops and snaps with whimsy while Bia Mendes coos atop the highest tree on the airy, almost dangerously adorable ‘Anagrama’. Dias hasn’t entirely forsaken sonic spice either, interjecting with the occasional blistering solo to keep us honest. It’s truly astounding how inspired this return to the limelight is as the dense carnival of sounds manages to elapse in fleet and ethereal fashion. In light of fairweather fans, this septet has waited for the ideal climate to unleash its revised Brazilian flavor upon the masses, armed with just the right amount of nuance to stave off sunburn.
Vinh Cao