Astrud Gilberto / Germany, April 24, 1988

Astrud Gilberto captivated the world as an icon of the 1960s Bossa Nova movement. This release captures a remarkable live performance by the legendary singer—recorded on April 24, 1988, at the Town Hall in Leonberg, Germany—with audio quality rivaling official releases. The eternal muse, best known for “The Girl From Ipanema,” showcases a voice that retains its signature clarity and elegance even in the late 1980s. Her vocals, now imbued with a mature expressiveness and depth distinct from the fresh, youthful quality of her early days, invite the listener into a world of grace. The setlist, comprised primarily of standards and Bossa Nova classics, perfectly encapsulates Astrud’s enduring appeal. Notably, the lineup features Paulo Jobim—son of Antônio Carlos Jobim—on piano. The high-quality backing instrumentation, characteristic of the warm European jazz scene, is superb, providing exquisite support for her natural vocal style. Amidst the intimate atmosphere unique to a live performance, she demonstrates her true worth as a mature artist, moving seamlessly from whispered phrasing to deeply emotive expression. This is a valuable live document from her later years that comes highly recommended not only to fans who experienced the golden age of Bossa Nova but also to vocal jazz enthusiasts. Live At Town Hall, Leonberg, Germany April 24th, 1988 1. Girl From Ipanema 2. Ponteio 3. My Friend Flora 4. Adeus America 5. Canto De Ossanha 6. Member Introduction 7. Samba Do Soho 8. Mantiqueira 9. Cumbia 10. Milkway 11. Aqua De Beber Astrud Gilberto (voc) Paolo Jobim (g, voc) William O’Connell (p) Marcello Gilberto (b) Romero Lubambo (g) Jay Ashby (tromb) Eduardo da Fonseca (dr)