The soundtrack from Woman on Top, starring Madrid-born bombshell Penelope Cruz as the beauty and brains behind a popular cooking show, is the perfect introduction to the Brazilian sound--and just might live up to the label's promise that it's "destined to bring Bossa Nova music to the world" (though bossa nova has long been popular in the West, albeit in specialized circles). The highly listenable album features contemporary Brazilian artists such as singer-songwriter Lenine; pop-rocker and Joao Gilberto sound-alike Paulinho Moska; and the three-DJ collective Bossa Cuca Nova putting a new spin on a classic Geraldo Pereira tune. It also includes gems such as Maria Creuza and her delicately wavering voice, and guitarist Dori Caymmi performing one of his father's songs. Mellow yet upbeat, it's relaxation music that won't put you to sleep. --Jamie FitzGerald
