Magic

Like many veteran musicians whose name practically defines an entire genre of music, Sergio Mendes uses his legendary status to team up with other first-rate names in the business from Brazil and the U.S. Whether it’s John Legend adding his vocals to “Don’t Say Goodbye,” presented here in an updated bossa nova arrangement, or again having Will.i.am collaborate on the electro-funk of “My My My My Love” with a guest vocal from Cody Wise, Mendes works like Carlos Santana and invites friends to enjoy his current celebration of life and music. Mendes produced this album and plays a fine piano. As with his previous albums, Mendes enjoys collaborations; this time around he elicits greater participation from his Brazilian friends. Milton Nascimento sings his classic “Olha a Rua.” Seu Jorge covers Moacir Santos’ classic “Sou Eu.” Latin GRAMMY–nominated singer/songwriter Maria Gadu offers “Meu Rio,” cowritten with Mendes. The closer, “One Nation,” was originally issued on One Love, One Rhythm—The 2014 FIFA World Cup Official Album, further making the case for Mendes’ universality.