Banda Black Rio were a Brazilian based jazz funk fusion band that incorporated native samba sounds with a little uptempo disco tossed in for good measure.  Their 1977 debut Maria Fumaca on Atlantic is a slickly recorded 10 song release that draws influence from bands like Kool and the Gang and Tim Maia. It's considered by enthusiasts to be one of the better funky Brazilian LPs. Top tracks include "Caminho da Roça", "Casa Forte", and the title track.  Their follow up releases are just as strong even if they head in more of a commercial direction (check out the Earth, Wind, and Fire inspired "Miss Cheryl").

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