“‘Mãe’ is the journey back home. The truth is that I have never delved so deeply into traditional fado as I have here. Whether it’s ‘the’ fado or my own fado, I don’t know, but it is in the process of learning and discovering the path that the album was built on.”
Cristina Branco
About Cristina Branco and „mãe“
Cristina Branco is a critically acclaimed Portuguese fado artist who has mesmerized audiences worldwide with her soulful voice and profound musicality. With a career spanning over two decades, Branco has released numerous successful albums, captivating listeners with her unique interpretations of traditional fado and her exploration of contemporary musical expressions. Recognized for her exceptional artistry, Branco has garnered international acclaim and established herself as a leading figure in the world of fado.
With an unwavering passion for traditional fado, she delivers a poignant homage to this emblematic musical genre deeply ingrained in Portuguese culture. Mark your calendars for her upcoming 18th studio album, “Mãe” (“Mother”) release on September 22nd.
“Mãe” represents a breathtaking musical masterpiece, where Cristina lends her distinctive and expressive voice to a diverse array of renowned composers, as is her artistic tradition. This extraordinary album invites audiences on an immersive journey of rediscovery and reinvention of fado, delving into its profound emotional depths and delicate nuances.
Behind the creation of “Mãe” Cristina Branco collaborated with a talented trio of musicians who have been her steadfast companions on both records and stages throughout the years. The exceptional artistry of Bernardo Couto on the Portuguese guitar, the mastery of Luís Figueiredo on the piano, and the enchanting sounds of Bernardo Moreira on the double bass breathe life into this musical gem, crafting a rich and immersive sonic experience.
As the release of “Mãe” draws near, anticipation builds for Cristina Branco’s latest offering. This eagerly awaited album promises to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of music lovers, redefining the boundaries of fado while honoring its time-honored roots. Prepare to be spellbound by Cristina Branco’s evocative vocals and the soul-stirring melodies that permeate “Mãe.”
Tracklist
- SENHORA DO MAR REDONDO (Adapt.) (3:40)
- FOLHA EM BRANCO (01:41)
- ESSA TRISTEZA (03:37)
- PASSOS CERTOS (02:19)
- RIO DE NUEVENS (Adapt.) (04:30)
- NOITE APRESSADA (04:22)
- ESE E O OUTRO (03:32)
- LIBERDADE (02:29)
- FADO DE UMA MULHER FELIZ SOZINHA (04:41)
Credits
Cristina Branco – Vocals
Bernardo Couto – Portuguese Guitar
Bernardo Moreira – Double Bass
Luís Figueiredo – Piano
Production – Cristina Branco, Bernardo Couto, Bernardo Moreira, Luís Figueiredo
Recording, Mixing and Masterting – Tiago Gomes de Sousa
(Recorded April 2023 at Estúdios Valentim de Carvalho, Paço de Arcos).
Executive Production – Locomotiva Azul – Paulo Sousa Martins, Beatriz Ramirez
Photos, album cover – photo Augusto Brázio
Make Up – Fátima Jardim
Artwork – André Loureiro
Tourdates
08.09.2023 – Rabat (MAR) – Théâtre National Mohammed V
09.09.2023 – Casablanca (MAR) – Le Studio Des Arts Vivants
26.09.2023 – Helsinki (FI) – Savoy Teatteri
27.09.2023 – Tampere (FI) – Tullikamari
29.09.2023 – Malmö (SWE) – Victoria Teatteri
30.09.2023 – Malmö (SWE) – Victoria Teatteri
21.10.2023 – Leiria (PT) – Teatro José Lúcio da Silva
28.10.2023 – Teneriffa (SP) – CajaCanarias Cultural Space
30.11.2023 – Porto (PT) – Casa da Música
01.12.2023 – Lagoa (PT) – Auditório Carlos do Carmo
05.01.2024 – Hamburg (GER) – Elbphilharmonie
02.02.2024 – Lissabon (PT) – CCB
14.03.2024 – Boulogne-Billancourt (FR) – Seine Musicale
15.03.2024 – Bordeaux (FR) – Opéra National de Bordeaux
01.03.2024 – Eindhoven (NET) – Muziekgebouw
