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One of the least known jazz-bossa albums was Buddy Collette’s Bossa Nova, recorded in 1962 for Los Angeles’s Crown label. The flutist and saxophonist was joined by Howard Roberts (g), Jim Helms (g,arr,cond), Mel Pollan (b), Leo Acosta (d,perc) and Darias (cga). Acosta was a Mexican drummer with bossa nova experience and Rogelio Darias was from Cuba and worked extensively in Las Vegas. Helms, who died in 1991, was a West Coast composer, arranger, conductor and producer who worked on a ton of B-films and is probably best known for the theme to TV’s Kung Fu in the 1970s. On Bossa Nova, Helms had a golden touch, but his arrangements were greatly enhanced by Buddy’s warm and engaging playing on the flute and tenor saxophone. Buddy was among the busiest artists in L.A.’s movie and recording studios. His command, technique and musical elegance were exceptional, even in a town where every other musician was considered extraordinary. Bossa Nova has a soft and driving feel, and it was recorded before Getz’s monster hit, The Girl From Ipanema, was released in 1964. So the ensemble is feeling its way through the genre with Buddy playing plenty of jazz. Best of all, there are no American standards or familiar bossa novas on here. It’s all brand new to the ear (JazzWax).

Track listing:

01 – Nao Pode Ser (It Can Never Be)
02 – O Barulho Da Noite (Noise Of The Night)
03 – Samba Da Tartaruga (Turtle Samba)
04 – Amor Levado (Mischievous Love)
05 – A Meia-Noite (At Midnight)
06 – Samba Un Pouco Azul (Blue Samba)
07 – A Pele Do Marfin (Skin Of Ivory)
08 – Porque De Moras? (Why Do You Linger?)

Personnel:

• Buddy Collette – flute
• Howard Roberts – guitar
• Mel Pollan – bass
• Leo Acosta e Darias – percussion
• Jim Helms – guitar

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Label: Crown Records  ‎– CST 302
Released: 1963