Arthur Verocai – Arthur Verocai

A record that defies category and defined an era—Arthur Verocai is a must-have for collectors, sample heads, and lovers of sublime, genre-blurring music. 

Few albums reach the mythic status of Arthur Verocai, the 1972 self-titled debut by the Rio-born composer and arranger. Long overlooked, now rightfully revered, this record has become a holy grail for crate diggers, beatmakers, and lovers of Brazilian music alike. It’s not just a landmark of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira)—it’s a singular fusion of lush orchestration, sun-drenched soul, psychedelic textures, and cinematic scope.

Originally released in a Brazil caught between the tropicalia boom and a tightening political regime, Verocai’s debut was a commercial flop—too forward-thinking, too genreless. But over the years, its cult grew. With arrangements as intricate as a jazz suite and grooves tight enough to be flipped by everyone from MF DOOM to Ludacris, it’s now considered one of the greatest records ever made, full stop.

This 2024 reissue from Mr Bongo is the definitive version. Pressed on heavyweight 180g black vinyl, it was remastered at half-speed at Abbey Road Studios by Miles Showell and sourced directly from the original Continental master tapes—transferred under Verocai’s own supervision. The packaging features original replica gatefold artwork and a printed inner sleeve, restoring the album to its full vintage glory.

Musically, it’s a kaleidoscope. Opener “Caboclo” weaves delicate strings with sharp drum breaks. “Sylvia” is a breezy, melancholic gem. “Presente Grego” goes widescreen with sweeping orchestration and psychedelic undertones. Backed by Brazilian greats like Célia, Carlos Dafe, Oberdan Magalhães (Banda Black Rio), Pedro Santos, and Paulo Moura, the album dances across samba, soul, jazz, funk, and baroque pop with impossible ease.

Note: All orders ship from France. VAT not charged (TVA non applicable, article 293 B du CGI). Worldwide shipping available. Images shown are mock-ups — actual vinyl may differ slightly.