In the late 90s, legendary musician and composer Hermeto Pascoal wrote the “Sound Calendar.” 366 songs- one for each possible day of the year- composed and handwritten in the wizards inimitable style.

There are plenty of recordings of selections from this wonderful trove of music. Hermeto in his infinite wisdom released the book for sale with no conditions upon performing or recording the music within. The version described here is a double album consisting of 27 pieces from this body of work as interpreted and recorded by the legendary Itiberê Zwarg.

Itiberê has been Hermetos bassist and friend since 1977 and he’s joined here by his Orquestra Família- 20+ musicians that make up a spiritual family and learn and create together with his guidance. Hermeto himself plays on these recordings, as do Itiberê Zwargs own literal children- the fantastically skillful percussionist Ajurinã and woodwind master Mariana.

Both the book (ebook) and this album are wonderful records of one of the most uniquely creative minds in music and are not to be missed.  I encourage anyone reading this who plays to pick up a copy of the Calendário do Som and enjoy playing the pieces within. His hand written music is beautiful to look at (he also did the album art for the original 2CD release, pictured above.)

You can find the album on streaming services, Soulseek and for sale on discogs, and the original e-book is available on Bandcamp. I love universal music and I love this collection. Long live Hermeto Pascoal!