About this album
Where they were
By the time 'a mentaridade' was released in 1998, Caetano Veloso was an established figure in Música Popular Brasileira, having gained international acclaim since the late 1960s. This album follows his 1996 work 'Fina Estampa', continuing his exploration of Brazilian musical heritage while integrating modern sounds and themes, solidifying his role as a cultural ambassador.
Why it matters
'a mentaridade' is significant for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound that resonates with the Brazilian cultural landscape of the late '90s. The album reflects Veloso's ongoing influence in music, contributing to discussions around identity in Brazil post-dictatorship, and it has garnered positive critical reception for its lyrical depth and musical diversity.
Essential tracks
- "Os passistas" — This opening track sets the tone for the album, blending lively rhythms with reflective lyrics celebrating Brazilian cultural figures known as passistas.
- "Você é minha" — This romantic ballad showcases Veloso's signature vocal style and lyrical tenderness, encapsulating themes of love and longing that permeate the album.
- "O navio negreiro (excerto)" — An excerpt from a powerful poem by Castro Alves, this track highlights Veloso's engagement with historical narratives and social issues in Brazil, emphasizing the legacy of slavery.
- "Manhatã" — With its rich instrumentation and hypnotic melody, 'Manhatã' reflects Veloso's ability to fuse poetic lyrics with captivating musical arrangements.
Release Date
January 1, 1998
Artist Origin
Brazil
Tracklist
- 1 Os passistas 3:24
- 2 Livros 4:30
- 3 Onde o Rio é mais baiano 3:21
- 4 Manhatã 5:17
- 5 Doideca 3:40
- 6 Você é minha 3:44
- 7 Um tom 2:30
- 8 How Beautiful Could a Being Be 3:27
- 9 O navio negreiro (excerto) 5:17
- 10 Não enche 3:31
- 11 Minha voz, minha vida 2:50
- 12 Alexandre 5:48
- 13 Na baixa do sapateiro 3:46
- 14 Pra ninguém 2:59
