Jazziz praised Brazilian guitarist Badi Assad, pronounced Bah-Jee Ah–Sahje. Guitar Player rated her “fearless!” Wonderland, her second album for Deutsche Grammophone, is more than an album of hope and fantasy. It is also a plea to find some sanity within this crazy world. This CD addresses many taboo subjects such as rape and child prostitution. Assad adds her unique stamp to Tori Amos’ “Black Dove” and exudes sensuality on the Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams”. On many tracks, the album features Seu Jorge as a special guest and members of the Assad family. Badi wrote in her liner notes that “Wonderland” is a place where all seems to make sense, even impossible things.” It is easy to lose yourself in the music and be transported to a place where peace is not just a dream but a reality. Badi was a skilled vocalist and released Solo on Chesky in 1994. She is now a major force in the guitar world. With the 1995 release of Rhythms, Badi’s international popularity grew. Guitar Player’s Reader’s Poll voted Rhythms “Best Classical Album” and editors voted her “Best Acoustic Fingerstyle Player”. Chameleon was Badi’s first major-label record. It was released on Verve Records in 1997 to great critical acclaim. 2003 was a great year for Badi, who took some time to herself in Brazil and released Three Guitars on Chesky Records. She recorded the album with Larry Coryell (guitar player) and John Abercrombie (guitar player). To return to Badi’s solo career, Badi released Verde, her debut album on edge/Deutsche Grammophon in September 2005 to high praise. Global Rhythm praised Badi’s “luscious vocals” and called the album “exquisite”. The Los Angeles Times called her “mesmerizing” during her live performance. Badi’s brothers Sergio Assad (and Odair Assad) are both well-known musicians and guitarists. Text contributed by users is available under Creative Commons By–SA License. It may also be available under GNU FDL.
