We’re sad to report the passing of pianist Jose Roberto Bertrami, leader of Brazilian trio Azymuth. Read tribute below from Far Out Recordings…
“Jose Roberto Bertrami, Brazil’s most celebrated pianist and a revolutionary musician, sadly passed away in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday 7th July 2012 at the age of 66.
“Keyboardist, composer and leader of the inimitable Brazilian trio Azymuth, Ze Bertrami is known for creating the mesmerising and genre-blending samba doida (crazy samba), a mix of samba, jazz, funk and rock with an infectious swing and has had a huge influence on Brazilian music through his solo projects, collaborations and session work. One of the Brazilian greats, he is responsible for cross-pollinating Brazilian music, bossa nova, samba and folk styles, with jazz, R&B, using his unique keyboard sound, harmonics and is a true technocrat. Amongst many others, he’s arranged and written with Sarah Vaughan, Elis Regina, Mark Murphy, Joe Pass, Erasmo Carlos, Milton Nascimento, Airto, Flora Purim and his signature sound can be heard on many of the best-known Brazilian productions.
“During his four decades with Azymuth, Bertrami toured the world many times, signed to Milestones Records to release the classic albums Light As A Feather and Telecommunications and had a worldwide chart hit with Jazz Carnival. Since 1994 Bertrami rekindled his career with Far Out Recordings releasing two solo albums, Things Are Different and Aventura, and ten Azymuth albums.
“Joe Davis and Far Out Recordings has lost one of their dearest friends and most talented musicians who shaped the sound of the label and Brazilian music for five decades. He will be sorely missed.
“Our thoughts and love go out to his family and friends.”
Far Out Recordings
09/07/2012
