Astrud Gilberto/Beach Samba (1967)

A Brazilian bossa nova/pop singer known for her "The Girl from Ipanema", Astrud Gilberto's 1967 album. Not a samba/bossa nova album, but a pop album featuring Astrud's offhand, languid vocals with strings and orchestra, in the soft rock or easy-listening style. The songs are mostly American jazz standards, such as "My Foolish Heart", "Misty Roses" and "I had the Craziest Dream". The fourth track "A Banda (Parade)" is funny for its mismatch between the performance like a military march and lazy vocals. "You Didn't Have to Be So Nice", featuring a duet between Gilberto and her six-year-old son, is a cover of the Lovin' Spoonful. Arranged by Don Sebesky and Eumir Deodato.