VA compiled by Bottletop - Sound Affects: Brazil

The concept of Sound Affects: Brazil is this; compile an eclectic blend of obscure Brazilian songs and grooves and put them on one CD, get a varied range of remixers to remix them and put that on another CD, then direct all proceeds of record sales to fund projects in Sao Paulo. The concept is great, but as with any good idea, it's the result that really matters. Whilst not perfect, Sound Affects: Brazil works well. Mar Afunda is an easy-going slice of organic jazzy funk, Injeção is a punchy bit of dancehall hip-hop, and Goya is a dream-like acoustic song, so there's something for everyone. The remix CD should be viewed more as a bonus: there's a Fatboy Slim mix of Amazonas which is good when it finally gets going, and Nu:Tone makes some melodic, danceable drum and bass out of the jazzy Nebulosa. Instead of being altruistic and giving your money to charity, you can buy this album, feel moral, and find a few hidden Brazilian tunes at the same time. [Josh Coppersmith-Heaven]