About this album
Where they were
By 1974, Jorge Ben had already established himself as a leading figure in Brazilian music, following his breakthrough album 'Samba Esporte Fino' in 1973. 'A Tábua de Esmeralda' marked a significant moment of artistic exploration for Ben, showcasing his unique blend of samba rock and esoteric lyrical themes that would define his sound moving forward.
Why it matters
'A Tábua de Esmeralda' is celebrated for its innovative approach to Brazilian music, influencing the Tropicália movement and earning critical acclaim. The album's exploration of alchemical and mystical themes resonated with audiences, solidifying Ben's status as a cultural icon in Brazil.
Essential tracks
- "Os alquimistas estão chegando os alquimistas" — The opening track sets the mystical tone of the album with its enchanting rhythms and lyrics that introduce the theme of alchemy.
- "Menina mulher da pele preta" — This song showcases Ben’s unique ability to blend romantic storytelling with infectious grooves, becoming one of his most beloved tracks.
- "Zumbi" — 'Zumbi' reflects social consciousness through its lyrics while maintaining an upbeat samba rock vibe, highlighting Ben's versatility as a songwriter.
- "Hermes Trismegisto e sua celeste tábua de esmeraldas" — This lengthy track dives deep into philosophical concepts, embodying the album’s thematic focus on mysticism and knowledge.
Release Date
January 1, 1974
Artist Origin
Brazil
Tracklist
- 1 Os alquimistas estão chegando os alquimistas 3:16
- 2 O homem da gravata florida (A gravata florida de Paracelso) 3:06
- 3 Errare humanum est 4:55
- 4 Menina mulher da pele preta 2:56
- 5 Eu vou torcer 3:13
- 6 Magnólia 3:13
- 7 Minha teimosia, uma arma pra te conquistar 2:43
- 8 Zumbi 3:29
- 9 Brother 2:54
- 10 O namorado da viúva 2:02
- 11 Hermes Trismegisto e sua celeste tábua de esmeraldas (Tratado hermético escrito pelo faraó egpicio Hermes Trimegisto e traduzido por Fulcanelli) 5:28
- 12 Cinco minutos (5 minutos) 2:57
