by Alvaro Neder
Uma Palavra is the 19th album by Chico Buarque. Subtle jazz and classical influences draw the attention, representing an ideal way for a natural modernization of Buarque's sound, even if he would prefer to stick to traditional samba. &Estação Derradeira& reflects on the problem of violence in Rio today, with a melody that challenges the modest vocal abilities of the excellent composer. &Morro Dois Irmãos& is an extremely beautiful melody, recorded by female singers who highlight the superior expressivity of the song. The samba-choro &Ela é Dançarina& is an urban chronicle of an improbable love affair. Already recorded by Caetano Veloso, &Samba e Amor& is a wonderful song about a Bohemian composer. Other old hits reinterpreted here are the lively samba &A Rosa,& the valse &Joana Francesa,& the samba-canção &Ela Desatinou,& the samba &Quem Te Viu, Quem Te Vê,& the densely romantic &Eu Te Amo& (from the homonymous film by Arnaldo Jabor), and &Vida.&