Moon Over Minas: When Laurel Canyon Meets the Hills of Brazil
Nate Kline
Written by Nate Kline in Sonic Journeys Music

Moon Over Minas: When Laurel Canyon Meets the Hills of Brazil

Let me tell you, folks—every once in a while, a collaboration comes along that feels like it was written in the stars. Jonathan Wilson, the modern-day torchbearer of Laurel Canyon’s golden era, teaming up with Brazil’s legendary Milton Nascimento? That’s the kind of musical alchemy that makes you believe in fate.

Their joint EP, Moon Over Minas, released in late 2024, is a three-track journey that transcends borders and genres. Recorded at Nascimento’s home in the heart of Minas Gerais, the EP captures the essence of two worlds colliding in the most harmonious way.

The opening track, “Tema Dos Deuses,” sets the tone with its ethereal layers and haunting melodies. It’s a reimagining of one of Nascimento’s classics, but with Wilson’s signature psychedelic touch. Then comes “Valley of the Silver Moon,” an original Wilson composition that feels like a love letter to both California’s sun-soaked landscapes and Brazil’s lush terrains. The EP closes with “Lilia,” a track that dances between Tropicália rhythms and surf-rock vibes, leaving you in a dreamlike state.

What makes Moon Over Minas so captivating is its ability to blend the familiar with the exotic. It’s not just a fusion of styles; it’s a conversation between two artists, each bringing their history, influences, and soul to the table. As a longtime fan of both, I can say this EP is a testament to the magic that happens when artists step out of their comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

Jonathan Wilson. Photo by Andrea Nakhla

So, if you’re in the mood for something that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new, give Moon Over Minas a spin. It’s a sonic journey that bridges continents and eras, reminding us of the universal language of music.

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