CATEGORY 29 - Best Instrumental Album

Hamilton de Holanda Quintet
Brasilianos
Adventure Music AM 1026 2
Biscoito Fino BF 630 (2006)
Total time: 63'36"

Brazilian mandolinists are world famous for their bountiful talents and vigorous performances. Whether we are talking about the legendary Jacob do Bandolim or more recent aces, such as Joel do Nascimento and Armandinho, mandolin players and groups keep choro music alive and well.
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In the Brazilian categories, we featured the following:

CATEGORY 36 - Best Brazilian Contemporary Pop Album

Zeca Baleiro
Baladas do Asfalto & Outros Blues
MZA Universal 325912006640 (2005)
Time: 50'07"

Zeca Baleiro or, as it would be in English, Zeca the Confectioner, does honour his name. During his musical career, which started in 1997 with his debut album Por Onde Andará Stephen Fry?, Zeca hands out his own musical candies like he used to do in another life.
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CATEGORY 36 - Best Brazilian Contemporary Pop Album

Lenine
Acústico MTV
Sony BMG 82876880512 (2006)
Time: 59'06"

When Lenine was asked by MTV to participate in their unplugged series, he decided to make something special of it by inviting some less obvious guests from all over the world. Of course MTV added strings and a burning horn section.
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CATEGORY 37 - Best Brazilian Rock Album

Mutantes
Ao Vivo
Sony BMG 82876866952 (2006)
Time: 94'45"

One of Brazil's most controversial bands ever must have been Os Mutantes. There were protest marches against their music back in the early 70s. They were accused of being a serious danger for the existence of Brazilian music. What happened?
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CATEGORY 39 - Best MPB Album

Zé Ramalho
Parceria dos Viajantes
Sony/BMG Brasil 88697061342 (2007)
Total time: 45'55"

When a new album from Zé Ramalho comes out, one kind of knows what to expect. His characteristic voice and music has become a very recognizable trademark. On this new cd it's remarkable to hear how easy other vocalists with completely different backgrounds fit into Zé Ramalho's unique style.
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CATEGORY 42 - Best Brazilian Song: Carta à Amiga Poeta (Francis Hime - Simone Guimarães)

Simone Guimarães
Flor de Pão
Biscoito Fino BF 640 (2007)
Time: 57'47"

The album is full of surprises, including a rich roster of special guests and Simone's vocal diversity with smooth and visceral renditions. Her presence as a composer is definitely stronger here with five of the tracks in the album carrying her signature.
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