Essential Track: Brazilian beat of M. Takara 3, 'Rei da Cocada'

By Randall Roberts

June 6, 2013 8:58 AM PT

Los Angeles Times Pop Music Critic

One of the blessings of listening to music for a living is the bounty of unexpected sounds that arrives from around the world, seemingly out of nowhere, on a daily basis. Yes, the inbox is filled with download links, .zip files and streams -- more than any human can possibly experience. But an object received in the mailbox still has more weight.

For example, to hold in one’s hand the rhythmic heaviness of “Daora: Underground Sounds of Urban Brasil,” a forthcoming double-disc collection of “hip-hop, beats, afro & dub” being issued by Mais Um Discos, is to know that something substantial is within.

Thirty-two songs that gather a range of urban sounds of Brazilian beat music, the collection serves as a reminder of the volume of transcendent music produced in and around Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Yes, there’s the baile funk that producer Diplo collected on his essential mixes, “Favela Booty Beats: Rio Baile Funk,” but “Daora” doesn’t focus on the favelas like Diplo did.

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Rather, Brazilian DJ and collector Rodrigo Brandao curated this compilation with an ear for variety -- and deep knowledge. There’s the sound of Bahia -- the rhythmic soul of African Brazil -- as well as fresh takes on Tropicalia through the expansive, fascinating work of Lucas Santtana, who covers Tom Ze’s “Musica.”

The release of “Daoro” is still a month away, but for now, check out M. Takara 3’s track on the collection, originally released in 2010: “Rei da Cocada.” Then, for variety’s sake, hit on Bode & Elefante’s work. “It’s Noon and I’m Still Asleep” is featured on “Daoro,” but their “Saudade Do Que Nao Tenho” just tripped me out.