Photos by Andy Argyrakis

Having recorded over 55 albums in just as many years, Sergio Mendes is as prolific as he is musically adventurous. Whether recording individually or fronting Brasil ’66 (and many other line-ups identified by their collaborative year), the Brazilian singer/pianist/composer/arranger bounced between bossa nova, jazz, funk, disco and adult contemporary with fans spanning “Austin Powers” to The Black Eyed Peas and an increased appreciation throughout the hip-hop community.

Even Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66’s Latin Grammy Hall of Fame interpretation of Jorge Ben’s “Mas Que Nada” was modernized with raps and rhymes, though they never overshadowed its signature chants and cheers that had everyone up and dancing.

During his later performance of a two-show stand at the sophisticated City Winery, the 78-year-old revisited regulars from the early 1960s through now, remarking at one point that a new album is on the way featuring Chicago’s very own Common. Indeed, it was that forward-thinking approach that defined the 80-minute set stocked with several exceptional musicians and singers (including his wife), who breathed fresh life into “Magalenha,” “Upa Neguinho” and “Like A Lover” with lively arrangements and spontaneous improvisations.

One of the most noticeable facelifts came to “Never Gonna Let You Go,” a time-stamped easy listening ballad on record, but re-grooved with a contemporary shuffle and swing. Mendes and company also took ownership of The Beatles “The Fool On The Hill” and Dusty Springfield’s “The Look Of Love,” pumping both up breezy beats and charming harmonies.

Even their Latin Grammy Hall of Fame interpretation of Jorge Ben’s “Mas Que Nada” was modernized with raps and rhymes, though they never overshadowed its signature chants and cheers that had everyone up and dancing. With an encore of “País Tropical,” Mendes’ international flavors remained intoxicating and hinted his sixth decade of creativity is shaping up to be right on rhythm.

Click here for more photos of Sergio Mendes at City Winery.

For additional information on Sergio Mendes, visit SergioMendesMusic.com.

Upcoming concert highlights at City Winery include Tony Terry (July 1); Mulberry Street (July 2); Dave Hollister (July 3); Terrapin Flyer (July 4); Angie Stone (July 5); Funkadesi (July 7); John Sebastian (July 8); Dirty Dozen Brass Band (July 9); A.J. Croce (July 10); Dave Alvin (July 11); Jackopierce (July 12); The LadyGang LadyHang (July 13); Terisa Griffin (July 13); Steve Forbert (July 14); Junior Brown (July 15); Michael Henderson (July 17); The Cosmic Honky-Tonk Revue (July 18); Chuck Prophet & The Mission Express (July 19); Mac McAnally (July 21); Jeff Bradshaw & Friends (July 22); Just Us Gals (July 23); Tortured Soul (July 24); Oleta Adams (July 25); Louis Prima Jr. & The Witnesses (July 26); Sonny Landreth (July 28); Conya Doss & Gordon Chambers (July 30) and Red Wanting Blue (July 31). For additional details, visit CityWinery.com/Chicago.

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