ELLA AND THE BOSSA BEAT is a distinctive musical project where two generations unite through a singular artistic vision. At its core is the creative partnership between Magrus Borges (drums and percussion) and Ella Blu (vocals, piano, and keyboards)—father and daughter connected by a profound musical chemistry and a shared commitment to reimagining Brazilian music through a contemporary, globally minded lens.
Their collaboration embodies a dialogue between experience and emerging artistry. Ella Blu is quickly establishing herself as a compelling new voice in contemporary jazz, while Magrus Borges brings decades of international acclaim, including a Grammy nomination and performances alongside iconic artists such as Astrud and Bebel Gilberto, Grace Jones, Shakira, Caetano Veloso, and Johnny Alf.
“AMARE,” produced by Magrus Borges and Luciano Cantone and released by the Milan-based label Schema Records, represents the duo’s most ambitious and fully realized work to date. The album features ten original compositions performed in three languages (English, Portuguese, and Italian) written by Ella Blu and Magrus Borges, with lyrics by Ella Blu and Toco. Together, they craft a sophisticated musical language where jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and modern pop aesthetics blend seamlessly, enriched by subtle electronic textures and an unmistakable melodic elegance.
The involvement of Brazilian singer-songwriter Toco, whose artistic sensibility bridges Brazilian tradition and European musical culture, deepen the album’s emotional and stylistic palette, reinforcing its balance between heritage and contemporary expression.
“Amare” also brings together an exceptional ensemble of internationally respected musicians, including Robson Barros on bass and Gianluca Petrella on trombone, joined by André Lafaete on semiacoustic guitar, Jonathan Dills on cello, Francesco Borrelli on electric guitar, and Luciano Cantone on vibraphone. Each contributes to a richly layered and dynamic soundscape—refined, vibrant, and deeply evocative.
Recorded between Orlando, Florida, and Milan, at Schema Records’ Blue Spirit Studios, the album captures the spirit of artistic collaboration across continents.
With “Amare,” Ella and the Bossa Beat present a mature and resonant body of work that reflects their artistic identity with clarity and depth. It is a musical narrative that transcends borders and generations—offering a fresh, sophisticated perspective on Brazilian music within the global jazz landscape.
A Side: a1 Mas Quem Um Verao feat. Toco / a2 Shine Your Light / a3 Amanhecer feat.Toco / a4 Milano Beat / a5 Quem Me Dera
B Side: b1 Italian Dream / b2 Areia feat. Toco / b3 Love Is Here to Stay / b4 Summer Rain / b5Amare feat. Toco
CREDITS
All songs written by Ella Blu and Magrus Borges
except A1, A3, A5, B1, B2 and B5 written by Ella Blu, Magrus Borges and Tomaz Di Cunto
Publishing by Edizioni Ishtar Srl
Ella Blu: vocals, keyboards, piano (B4)
Magrus Borges: drums & percussion
Toco: vocals (A1, A3, B2, B5)
Robson Barros: bass
Francesco Borrelli: acoustic guitar (B2), electric guitar (B1, B5)
Gianluca Petrella: trombone & horns arrangement (A4, A5, B1, B5)
Luciano Cantone: vibraphone (B2)
André Lafaete: semi-acoustic guitar (A1, A2, B1, B3)
Jonathan Dills: cello (B4)
Produced by Magrus Borges & Luciano Cantone
Mixed & mastered by Francesco Borrelli at Blue Spirit Studios, Milan, Italy
