Samba to Go

Hendrik Meurkens's Samba to Go is full of ups and downs, and leaves listeners a bit confused as to his point of view and message on this recording.

Tracks such as "Odessa in April" feature some quality harmonica work while the title track, "Samba to Go," is a fast?paced, rollicking tune that bounces along happily. "Mountain Drive," conversely, slows the pace and is lovely ? especially the opening sequence, which is dream-like. "Bossa Sketch" keeps it simple, which is a welcome bit of variety. But "My Foolish Heart" is the best number here ? discovering that such expression is possible without saying a word was a very pleasant surprise.

However, there are just too many stumbles along the way as well. "Joe's Donut" starts out promising, but becomes just too similar to the tracks that came before, and fades into the background. And when all is said and done, Samba to Go is pleasant, but just missing that little something extra to make it truly memorable.