Smooth jazz and Brazilian bossa nova combine their qualities to an uplifting and upbeat crescendo of a sound, as Amilcar’s volume 2 of At the Lounge promises an hypnotic and organic floor-filler then free-flowing devotion to strong grooves and intimate musicianship.
Featuring hints of influence from Nu-Bossa, Nu-Jazz and downtempo lo-fi study music, there’s something both cinematic and exciting about this fresh collection of tracks. Amilcar unites new pieces of the Lounge puzzle with this release, promising a bright and energising introduction in the form of Nosso Encontro, followed by a more smooth and bluesy twist of escapism that is Dança das Estrelas. Think rhythmic keys, retro warmth and live smokey backstreets that consistently set the vibe. No lyrics, just music, and a sense of movement and calm somehow carefully intertwined.
Sophisticated global sounds and modern production lets fluidity and charm elevate the tracks of At the Lounge vol. 2. The Lounge Affair is a personal highlight, a lounge and downtempo simplicity that counters whistle-like peaks with mellow bass-thick synths and keys, for something softly pushing the mind to wander and the body to find in a state of healing serenity.
At the final curtain, a twist of storytelling guitar lets Nightfall Nostalgia add an organic chill hop aura, which, for me, seems reminiscent of the likes of Lemon Jelly. In just four short audio bursts of creative energy, we’ve evolved from the exhilaration of live bossa nova and new jazz, to the consuming and sleepy embrace of trip hop. All the while, the Amilcar sound-bank holds closely to a select few traits distinct to this name.
It’s a likable listen, hopeful and quite bright, inspiring when experienced in full from start to finish. And this is again just one small part of a growing, focused and purposeful catalogue of original music from Amilcar. The project emerges complete with a visual story, embedded below, and the full experience is an easy one to sink into at the end of a long week.
Find Amilcar on Instagram, Soundcloud, X. Download or stream At the Lounge vol. 2.
