CELSO MURILO: “Mr. RITMO”
Edição Original em LP Pawal SP 70.007 (1961?)
A cult album from João Gilberto's favourite organist, Celso Murilo. Mr Ritmo incorporates the heavy afro-cuban influence of the time, as well as pointing to the future of Ed Lincoln-style brazilian dance music.
The following is a translation of the original liner notes (see the back cover for the original notes in portuguese language): Celso Levanhagen is the real name of this 'mineiro' from Baependí, still very young but so decidedly advanced on the road to success and popularity. This superb organist and no less a pianist can be found in the night-club Drink, where he was discovered by the directors of Pawal Records. Impressed by the powerful brilliance of the young 'mineiro', they invited him to record an LP on their newly-founded label, and, it ended up as you can hear - an auspicious beginning and an absolute success. Celso Murilo had already been presented to the record buying public on two excellent long playing records - 'Sambas Na Passarela' and 'Ritmos Na Passarela' whereupon, as the titles suggest, authentic hits flowed in procession for the delight of those who love great interpretations of great music. On these albums Celso impressed all those who heard him with his pure technique, ability to improve and general talent as a bandleader. We don't know which of these samba dance tracks were top of the pops with you the listening jury, but the true victor without shadow of a doubt is this new and excellent interpreter of popular music: Celso Murilo - our 'Mr Ritmo'. So, now well-known and deservedly lauded, here he is once more showcased in this spectacular LP, where we celebrate more of his stupendous performances. On this LP, recorded in Mono and Stereophonic, we hear a selection of cha-cha-chas and sambas, hand picked for your musical delectation. In our opinion 'Mr Ritmo' will only serve to solidify and consolidate Celso Murilo's prestige with a wider public, a public that's young and carefree, that hears this type of music and dances and sings, in the reflection of Celso's own youth and vitality.
