Nação Zumbi [2014]

Recording information: Estudio El Rocha; maravilhab E Pipa Estudio; Monoaural Studio; YB Studios.
This eponymous album, released by Naçao Zumbi in 2002, was probably the group's maturest, most focused, and, ultimately, most impressive effort at the time. Although still very much in tune with the mangue beat format set out by the former lead singer of the group, Chico Science, their style is now much more consistent and effective than before. The name of one of the best tracks is "Meu Maracatu Pesa uma Tonelada" (which means "My Maracatu Weighs a Ton"), and that pretty much sums up the brutal power of that track, with its heavy electric guitars and even heavier maracatu drums. The groovy and laid-back "Ogan di Bele" and the slick maracatu rap of "Faz Tempo" are two other very enjoyable tracks. As usual, it is in their simple, straightforward, and groovy moments that Naçao Zumbi are at their best. And it's when they try to make profound comments on social issues and when they concentrate all their energy on trying to seem "cool" or "international" that they show their most unimpressive side. ~ Philip Jandovsky