I have a completely different viewpoint than that of Andrew Gilbert regarding Eliane Elias' new CD.
1. I had heard OF Ms. Elias, but had never heard her until this disc. I was (and am) enthralled!
2. How is covering "The Girl From Ipanema" superfluous when the CD is a tribute to 50 years of bossa nova? It's the one song people who know nothing of the genre recognize instantly!
3. Ms. Elias does a SUPERB bossa nova arrangement of what is (arguably) my favorite George Gershwin tune, "They Can't Take That Away From Me". A GREAT example of "...making a compelling case for bossa nova as a purveyor of unexpected delights" !
I've been recommending this CD to every one of my friends who loves music. DEFINITELY one of my favorite releases of 2009!