Chico Buarque's First Chico Buarque

<p><i>Chico Buarque </i>comprises a critical appreciation of the self-titled album (1978), which is one of the Brazilian artist’s most representative. This vibrant collection displays the singer-songwriter’s singular talents as a composer/poet of songs with both popular appeal and keen analytical skills. The 11 tracks include both up-beat sambas and lyrical compositions: witty tunes, dramatic laments, international items, and, especially, epochal protest songs with fascinating histories. <br><br>The album embodies Chico Buarque's affective sensibilities and sociopolitical engagement, and this book situates the album in inter-related contexts: the artist's own career; the evolution of the current he represents MPB (Brazilian Popular Music); and, especially, historical conjuncture—the period of military dictatorship in Brazil, 1964-85.</p>