Released during the most fertile era of Brazil’s Tropicália movement, Jorge Ben’s self-titled 1969 release shines with energy and grace. Backed by the agile band Trio Mocotó, Ben’s vocals soar over grooves rooted in the hypnotic polyrhythms of samba. Yet the textures are expansive enough to exemplify Tropicália’s experimental side by incorporating low-slung funk on tracks like “Criola” and socially conscious content into songs like “Take It Easy My Brother Charles”. For his part, Ben’s nimble vocals and elegant melodies enchant throughout. Anchoring the album are the infectious standout “País Tropical” and the character study “Charles, Anjo 45”, which Caetano Veloso covered later in 1969.