Jacob Black

Released in 2018, Jacob Black is Hamilton de Holanda's sophisticated tribute to the legacy of Jacob do Bandolim, the father of modern choro. However, rather than a straightforward covers album, de Holanda uses the 'Black' in the title to signify a deep dive into the African-diasporic roots of the genre, blending choro with elements of soul, funk, and American jazz. The album features his signature ten-string mandolin, an instrument he helped popularize, which allows for a wider range of bass notes and richer chordal textures than the traditional eight-string version. Recorded with a sharp, responsive trio/quartet feel, the album highlights de Holanda's ability to improvise at breakneck speeds while maintaining a lyrical, vocal-like quality to his phrasing. It was received as a pivotal moment in his discography, further cementing his role as a global jazz innovator who remains fiercely rooted in Brazilian tradition. The track 'Assanhado' serves as a centerpiece, showcasing the technical evolution of choro in the 21st century.