By MusicForecast
Sounds of Infinity:
Marcos Resende & Index – Festa Para Um Novo Rei
A Feast for the New King
The 1978 album Festa Para Um Novo Rei (Festival for the New King) by the group Index, led by Brazilian music maestro Marcos Resende, is a fusion of jazz, bossa nova, funk and the rich rhythms of Brazil. The album is a culmination of Resende's musical explorations and has been regarded as a symbol of the intersection of Brazilian music and jazz since its release.
Resende and Index have come back to prominence with the reissue of their unreleased album Marcos Resende & Index in 2021,** but Festa Para Um Novo Rei is the official album that existed from the time of its release and still shines with its execution and creativity.
Background and album concept
In the late 1970s, many artists on the Brazilian music scene were exploring new sounds, influenced by jazz and fusion. Festa Para Um Novo Rei was born out of that movement, and allows you to experience the "festival" of rhythms and melodies that Resende and his group Index created.
The title "New King" seems to symbolize the evolution of music and culture, and the entire album is infused with the spiritual energy and vision for the future of Brazilian music.
Truck Review
A1. Terra De Vera Cruz (3:36)
The album kicks off with this rhythmic, energetic track. "Terra De Vera Cruz" refers to Brazil's early colonial name, giving the music a historical perspective. With vibrant piano riffs and driving drums, it's a strong opening track.
A2. Adriana (4:00)
This song has a beautiful melody line, and the lyrical piano solo and soft saxophone intertwine to create an intimate and sentimental atmosphere. It is one of the most emotional moments on the album.
A3. Macacheira (3:57)
The title comes from cassava, an essential ingredient in Brazilian cuisine. This light-hearted track contains humorous elements, and the rhythm of samba is at the forefront. The song, led by the rhythm section, conveys the essence of Brazilian music.
A4. Terra De Santa Cruz (3:46)
Continuing on from "Terra De Vera Cruz," this historically themed track features an understated yet grandiose arrangement, with Resende's synthesizers giving the whole track a futuristic feel.
A5. Festa Para Um Novo Rei (6:04)
A gorgeous piece worthy of being the album's title track. In this track, complex rhythms and majestic piano phrases intertwine to vividly depict a festive theme. It has an overwhelming presence as the climax of the whole album.
B1. Mulato (4:39)
This energetic song is a perfect blend of samba and jazz, with a light rhythm and clever electric piano phrasing that gets the listeners dancing.
B2. Areias (3:59)
The track, whose title means "Sand," evokes the image of a quiet beach. The rhythm is gentle, but the melody line is full of deep emotion, making it a relaxing track on the album.
B3. Vidigal (4:58)
This song is themed on Vidigal, a hill in Rio de Janeiro. The complex chord progression and rich melody reflect the multifaceted culture of Vidigal. It is one of the most memorable songs on the album.
B4. Corsários (7:42)
The grandiose track that marks the finale of the album. This song, which means "pirate", is full of energy that symbolizes freedom and adventure. The ensemble, with its prominent solos on each instrument, allows you to fully enjoy the group's outstanding technique.
Musical characteristics and significance
The greatest appeal of Festa Para Um Novo Rei is its fusion of genres. Resende's electric piano combines the improvisational qualities of jazz with the rhythms of Brazilian music, giving each song its own warmth and depth. The intricate arrangements by the members of Index and the unity of their performance can be felt throughout the album.
The album is a seminal piece in the Brazilian music scene and shows how Resende has expanded and evolved his music.
Reevaluated Value
With the reissue of his unreleased album Marcos Resende & Index in 2021, Resende's work has been given renewed attention, and Festa Para Um Novo Rei has been reevaluated for its artistic merit. This album is essential listening for fans of Brazilian music and jazz, and occupies an important place both historically and musically.
