The Times ( London ) ***

The problem with Brazilian music is that the famously understated cool that is its greatest asset is also its own worst enemy. Classy and sophisticated, if we’re honest, it can also be mind-numbingly soporific. Vinicius Cantuaria spent a decade in Caetano Veloso’s backing band, learning from the master how to combine the bossa nova’s subtle modesty with the more assertive attitude of rock-n-roll. Several years ago he relocated from Rio de Janeiro to New York , and now all of this diverse influences have come to fruition on Silva. Cantuaria’s voice is so mellow that at times he sounds like he’s apologising for disturbing us. But the trumpet player Michael Leonhart and the Bessler String Quartet add intriguing textures, and the insistent but inventive rhythms of percussionists Sidinho and Chacal help tracks such as the Bridge (one of three songs sung in English), Saudades de Voce and Alegria shuffle their way out of the hammock and on to the dance floor – Nigel Williamson.