(Cross the) Heartland: Pat Metheny, “Estupenda Graca” (1981)

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“Estupenda Graca” is a rare entry in the Metheny catalog in that the title, Portuguese for “Stupendous Grace,” actually matches the mood of the song. With Pat and Lyle providing a series of gently unfolding arpeggios, Nana Vasconcelos sings a lovely meditation. At under three minutes long, the song feels like a lullabye. I never get tired of Vasconcelos voice, wordlessly imparting so much emotion.

As Wichita Falls‘s conclusion, I’ve often gotten the feeling that “Estupenda Graca” was being sung back to rest of the album, one piece of music communicating with its neighbors.

Next up: Barcarole kicks off the incredible Offramp LP


Mark Saleski