On this year's jazz-inflected album Ária, Brazilian singer-songwriter Djavan recorded a collection of covers that have inspired him over the years. He reinvents songs like Caetano Veloso's "Oração ao Tempo," Bert Howard's "Fly Me to the Moon," and Jobim's "Brigas Nunca Mais" alongside several obscure gems by Chico Buarque, Edu Lobo, and others. But rather than use his standard eight-piece band, Djavan chose arrangements that required sparse instrumentation, giving each tune a more intimate feel.
For his stop in South Florida, the 61-year-old singer is unlikely to concentrate on material from Ária because his expat Brazilian fans aren't likely to be familiar with these most recent efforts.
But he will be playing with the same band that helped him record the disc: Torcuato Mariano on electric guitar, André Vasconcellos on bass, and Marcos Suzano on percussion. So expect pared-down renditions of classics from his repertoire as well as a few better-known selections from the new disc such as Gilberto Gil's "Palco." And considering Djavan's reputation as a showman, his status on the international jazz scene, and the testimony of his huge homeland following, you should also expect the Fillmore to overflow with pure party atmosphere and sing-along moments.
-- Ernest Barteldes
Djavan. Friday, October 29. Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. The show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets cost $31.50 to $76.50, plus fees. Visit livenation.com.