Caetano Veloso came to England in the summer of '69, after having run afoul of the authorities in his native Brazil for his politics. "London, London" is the first of his "albums-in-exile" and, while no masterpiece, it remains of historical iterest to Veloso's international fans. That is not to say that there are not some real gems here, including "Asa Branca," a lovely ballad and the only song on the album in Portugese. But the presence of this song, by Luiz Gonzaga and Humberto Teixira, helps to throw the album's primary weakness into relief. Veloso possesses one of the most affecting voices in music, capable of great tenderness and conviction. But the vocals are less assured here, the result perhaps of Veloso's struggles with a new language, one not so fluid as Portugese. That being said, highlights here include the Donovon-esque "London, London," which movingly conveys Veloso's sense of wonder at finding himself in Swinging London, a sentiment underscored in its recurring lyric, "While my eyes / Go looking for the saucers in the sky." I also like "Maria Bethania," with its gentle reproach to his sister, herself a major recording artist in Brazil, for not having kept him adequately informed about events back home. And "Shoot Me Dead" is a rocking good number with lively percussive effects that showcases yet another side to Veloso's multifaceted talent. All in all, a must for fans; others might beware.

This is a really fabulous album. By and large, it is a documenting of Caetano's emotional rollercoaster during his exile from Brazil. Musically, it is a considerable departure from anything Brazilian. This is really about Caetano, his life crisis, and the obvious influence British Isles music was having on his work. This album really bears no similarity to his previous work, regardless of language. The 1969 white album was all over the place, and this album, partly because there are only 7 songs, is more focused. Maria Bethania and Shoot Me Dead are my favorites. There is great similarity with this album and Transa, the follow-up. I know many fans swear by Transa, but right now, I'm leaning on the '71 album as the stronger package. You can't go wrong either way.

Recorded in London in 1970 during Veloso's exile ,this album contains great gems such A LITTLE MORE BLUE,MARIA BETHANIA and the eventual classic LONDON,LONDON.Caetano turned his SAUDADE(longing)for home into a highly creative work that trascends decades and cultures