Record Review

Djavan – Flor De Lis

Artist Djavan
Label Soma (4)
Catalog # 504012
Year 1987
Format Vinyl - LP
Latin Bossanova MPB

Djavan stands as one of Brazil's most accomplished singer-songwriters, and Flor De Lis, released in 1987 on the Soma label, showcases his mastery of Latin, bossa nova, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) traditions. By this point in his career, Djavan had already established himself as a sophisticated composer and vocalist capable of blending intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity.

The album presents twelve tracks that demonstrate his characteristic style across both sides of the vinyl. The title track "Flor De Lis" opens the A-side with a graceful instrumental arrangement, while "Na Boca Do Beco" offers a brief, punchy exploration. Mid-album highlights include "Maçã Do Rosto" and "Quantas Voltas O Mundo Dá," which showcase Djavan's lyrical depth and melodic sensibility. The B-side maintains momentum with standouts like "Maria Das Mercedes" and "Embola A Bola (Catereté)," the latter featuring traditional Brazilian rhythmic elements. "Magia" provides an intimate moment, while "Ventos Do Norte" closes the album evocatively. Throughout Flor De Lis, Djavan balances sophisticated harmonic arrangements with accessible melodies, making this release an essential addition to any serious Brazilian music collection.

Tracklist

Side A
  1. 1 Flor De Lis (3:46)
  2. 2 Na Boca Do Beco (2:04)
  3. 3 Maçã Do Rosto (3:17)
  4. 4 Para-raio (2:30)
  5. 5 E Que Deus Aiude (3:06)
  6. 6 Quantas Voltas O Mundo Dá (3:35)
Side B
  1. 1 Maria Das Mercedes (2:54)
  2. 2 Muito Obrigado (3:07)
  3. 3 Embola A Bola (Catereté) (2:32)
  4. 4 Fato Consumado (2:36)
  5. 5 Magia (3:01)
  6. 6 Ventos Do Norte (3:16)