Album Review: A Concertina Já Tocou by Nelson Costa – A Folk Fiesta That’ll Stick to Your Soul
Let’s get one thing straight: if you’re looking for an album that screams “generic Spotify playlist filler,” then A Concertina Já Tocou ain’t it. Nope. This 2018 gem from Portugal, released under the label País Real, is like a warm hug from your grandma—if your grandma was secretly a folk music legend with a knack for blending Latin vibes and corridos into something uniquely addictive.
Nelson Costa dives headfirst into genres like Folk, World, Country, and even throws in some Descarga flair for good measure. It’s not just background noise; it’s storytelling with soul. And trust me, this guy knows how to string together tunes that’ll have you humming them while brushing your teeth or pretending you can dance at a family wedding.
Track Highlights: The Ones That Stuck Like Glue
Now, let’s talk about two tracks I can’t shake off my brain, no matter how hard I try (and believe me, I haven’t tried very hard).
1. "Balança Concertina"
Imagine someone handed a concertina a shot of espresso and said, “Go wild.” That’s what this track feels like—lively, unpredictable, and kinda makes you wanna grab a partner and spin around the room. The rhythm is infectious, and the melody has this cheeky charm that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. By the second listen, I caught myself air-concertina-ing in front of the mirror. Embarrassing? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely.
2. "Chora, Chora"
Okay, so here’s where things get real. This song hits different. At first, it sounds like your average tearjerker ballad, but then the lyrics sink in, and BAM—you’re emotionally compromised. It’s raw, heartfelt, and somehow manages to make crying sound… fun? Weird flex, but okay. There’s a certain swagger in the delivery that keeps it from being overly sappy, which is clutch because nobody wants to sob uncontrollably during their morning commute.
Why You Should Give It a Spin
What sets A Concertina Já Tocou apart isn’t just its genre-hopping audacity—it’s the way it feels personal. Each track tells a story, whether it’s about love (És Tudo Para Mim), friendship (Amigos De Verdade), or just life in general (A Mulher Portuguesa). It’s as if Nelson Costa invited you over for dinner, pulled out his concertina, and started serenading you with tales from his travels.
And hey, props to him for making a nearly forgotten instrument cool again. Seriously, who else is out there championing the concertina in 2023? Not many, buddy.
Final Thoughts (With a Side of Sass)
If I had to sum up this album in one sentence, it’d be: “It’s like a musical time machine that takes you everywhere from Lisbon streets to Latin fiestas without ever leaving your couch.” But honestly, what sticks with me most isn’t just the music—it’s the vibe. Listening to this album feels like finding an old photograph tucked inside a book—you didn’t know you needed it until you stumbled across it, and now it’s all you can think about.
So do yourself a favor: crank up A Concertina Já Tocou, pour yourself a glass of port wine (or whatever floats your boat), and let Nelson Costa remind you that sometimes, the best stories are told through a squeezebox and a whole lotta heart. Oh, and maybe clear some space for impromptu dancing. You’ve been warned.
