Elenco the record label should not be confused with Elenco the electronics company
Elenco is a Brazilian record label created in 1963 by Aloysio de Oliveira. It is often considered as one of the most influential labels in the Bossa nova and MPB genre. Musicians such as Baden Powell de Aquino (commonly known as Baden Powell), Astrud Gilberto or Antonio Carlos Jobim have recorded stellar albums for Elenco, which are today considered as masterpieces of the genre. The most significant records were released between 1963 and 1968 and are instantly recognizable through their artwork which often consists of a monochrome photography or painting scattered with small red dots. These records are also noteworthy for the high quality recording techniques used at RioSom studios in Rio de Janeiro by engineer Norman Sternberg. Many Elenco records have been reissued on CD, most notably in Japan. LP's are harder to find and are considered today as highly-priced collector items.
Other artists who recorded for Elenco: Sylvia Telles, Edu Lobo, Nara Leão, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Vinícius de Moraes, Baden Powell, Maria Bethânia, Dorival Caymmi, Sérgio Mendes, Maysa, Roberto Menescal, Tamba Trio, Lúcio Alves, Odette Lara, Sérgio Ricardo, Aracy de Almeida, Sidney Miller, Ciro Monteiro, Quarteto Em Cy, Rosinha de Valença and Lennie Dale.