Album Review: Figa Casamenteira by As Gatas – A Samba Party You Can’t Skip
Alright, let’s talk about Figa Casamenteira by As Gatas. This Brazilian samba gem from the label Hot is like that friend who shows up uninvited but ends up being the life of the party. It’s got this raw, infectious energy that just grabs you and doesn’t let go. If you’re into Latin beats with a touch of Bahian magic, buckle up—this one’s for you.
First off, the track “Bahia De Todos Os Deuses” hits hard. Like, really hard. The percussion feels alive, like it’s got its own heartbeat, and the vocals? Oh man, they’re dripping with soul. There’s something about how the rhythm builds—it starts chill, almost like a lazy afternoon, but then BAM! It kicks into high gear, and suddenly you’re dancing around your living room in socks. I remember this one because it made me miss Brazil even though I’ve never been there. Weird, right?
Then there’s “Figa Casamenteira,” the title track. It’s cheeky, fun, and kinda flirty—just what you’d expect from a song with a name like that (google it if you don’t get the joke). The brass section pops out of nowhere and gives the whole thing this celebratory vibe, like someone crashing a wedding with confetti and a bottle of cachaça. Honestly, it’s impossible not to smile while listening to it. Plus, the lyrics are sharp—smart enough to make you think but playful enough to keep things light.
The other tracks, like “Bloco De Sujo” and “Bahia Com B-A-Bá,” round out the album nicely, but those two stuck with me the most. Maybe it’s because they feel authentic, like As Gatas aren’t trying too hard to impress anyone—they’re just doing their thing, and we’re lucky enough to listen in.
Here’s the kicker though: as much as I love this album, it also made me realize how underrated samba is outside Brazil. Like, why isn’t everyone losing their minds over this stuff? It’s catchy, deep, and makes you wanna move—what more could you want? Anyway, do yourself a favor and give Figa Casamenteira a spin. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself daydreaming about Carnival tickets.
Oh, and P.S., if you ever see As Gatas live, go. Seriously. Even if you have to sell a kidney. Trust me on this.
