Por Pouco (Bit Box)

Mundo Livre S/A continues its streak of stunning albums with Por Pouco, yet another release that crosses multiple stylistic boundaries. Songs such as "Meu Esquema" find the band slowing things down for a change, but, for the most part, the Brazilian band keeps the energy level high here, much like you'd expect. In particular, the first few songs on Por Pouco — "O Mistério do Samba," "Concorra a um Carro," and the title track — get the album off to a rousing beginning before the band slows things down a bit and turns toward its melodic side on "Mexe Mexe." By blending good old rock & roll with samba and other Latin-infused styles, Mundo Livre S/A again demonstrates how inventive a band it really is, sounding more confident than ever.