The Sounds of VTech

Since the start of the Timeless Series on February 1st, 2009, word has spread throughout the streets, over airwaves and the internet, and across oceans about the magic it has brought, not only to Los Angeles, but to music lovers worldwide. Timeless has given those fortunate to attend, the chance to bear witness to musical miracles and be engulfed by beautiful melodies. Music that truly stays with you forever.

On March 15th, 2009, Los Angeles was blessed with a very special gift. The opportunity to see Arthur Verocai perform his seminal 1972 album for the very first time with a 36-piece orchestra.

From the moment the maestro, Arthur Verocai, stepped out onto the stage at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex on Sunday night, the audience was mesmerized. Not only by the sight of this musical powerhouse gracing the L.A. stage for the very first time, but by his haunting, intensely beautiful and psychedelically soulful arrangements. 

From the musical Lea family (Chris: flute/piccolo, Tom: viola, Elizabeth: trombone) to trumpet player Todd Simon, from Suite For Ma Dukes arranger/composer Miguel Atwood-Ferguson (viola) to Justo Almario (alto sax, flute), there was no shortage of talent in Verocai’s orchestra that night. And with the added help of Verocai’s friends and some of the finest Brazilian musicians, Ivan “Mamao” Conti and Jose Roberto Bertrami from Azymuth, percussionist Airto Moreira,  and Aloisio Aguiar (original piano player on Verocai’s debut album), the music was undoubtedly superb. 

Vocals provided by Carlos Dafé (original singer on Verocai’s debut album) and Clarisse Grova (original singer on Verocai’s second album) brought an authenticity to Verocai’s music that was reminiscent to listening to his record for the very first time. And when Verocai took the microphone to perform Caboclo, the audience held its breath. 

There is something special to be said about seeing a live musical performance. The nuances of the singers as they change octaves and harmonize, the synchronization of the string section as each shift in the head and sway of the body is timed perfectly, the love and emotion beaming from the musicians faces as they perform, and the joy and humble gratitude shown by a legend to an audience who appreciates his work. 

To be in the presence of such a man, on such an evening, unequivocally a gift to treasure for a lifetime.

VTech and Mochilla have brought a breathe of fresh air to Los Angeles.

-Let’s keep on breathing- 

Photos by Azul 213*