The music industry from time to time commits injustices with some artists. Bola Sete is one of these injustices, an outstanding and unique guitar player, that I’m not afraid to say, is the best Brazilian guitarist of all-time and is unknown in his own country. The guy that Santana dedicated his Grammy to and cited as his greatest inspiration, was invited by Dizzie Gillispie to play in his group in The Ninth Annual Monterey Jazz Festival and even teamed up with Vince Guaraldi to record two albums.

After those experiences, Bola Sete (Born Djalma de Andrade) started to look for a more mystic and mysterious sound. It’s this sound that we find in the album “Shambhala Moon”. A mix of the jazz influences from greats like Wes Montgomery and Django Reinhardt that Bola incorporated into his music, with Latin rhythms, “Shambhala” is Bola’s most mature and unique album. I’ve never heard anything that sounded similar to these songs. It’s an amazing use of all musical elements like alterations, exotic chord progressions and melodic lines. Actually, if you’re a guitar student this album is a must-listen, almost a full-musical lesson on how to construct melodies, harmonies and improvise. Bola transfers his emotions to the listener by contrasting climax and peaceful parts in his songs (a clear influence of Montgomery’s music), bringing you an experience that you will never forget.

This is an album that will take you to another place, maybe to the famous Shambhala, that the Buddhists believe exists. This mystic, exotic, beautiful and peaceful place that really translates what Bola’s music is. A pure land for few people. For those who take a listen to Djalma’s music and recognize his talent. The talent of a true genius, the talent of a true musician, the talent of a music lover just like us.

by Arthur