Priscilla Ermel
Saber Sobre Viver
Timbre (Brazil) 1985
803.197 (LP) w/insert.
sleeve : VG+(SRW, some wear on edge and corner.)
media : VG+/VG+(light surface noise caused by slightly hairlines. some light click noise.)
An outstanding 1985 release by Brazilian cellist/composer Priscilla Ermel, also known for her remarkable work on labels such as Gravadora Eldorado. Featuring a cast of musicians on viola, violin, organ, clarinet, percussion, and more, this album fully showcases Ermel’s gifts as a true multi-instrumentalist—she steps beyond her main instrument, the cello, to play viola and percussion, and delivers vocals on every track as well. All tracks are so amazing. Highlights include A4, where strings led by a viola carrying a wistful, nostalgic melody are layered over subtle percussion rhythms alongside trad-leaning vocalizations, and A5, which unfolds like a field recording of daily life among indigenous communities deep in the Amazon jungle. Throughout, Ermel pushes into highly experimental territory, preserving a contemporary music framework while pursuing a raw, primitive, and deeply organic ethnographic approach. Spiritual in a way that recalls Egberto Gismonti, yet sharing a bold experimental edge with Arrigo Barnabé. A seriously wild record. Highly recommended.
A1: Cega Cigana
A4: Mensageiro
B1: O Cantico da Terra
B4: Saber Sobre Viver