Fairly typical ‘60s easy listening pop. But as an album, The Astrud Gilberto Album is better than most. Beautiful arrangements are accompanied by a sweet voice sophistically explaining feelings of love and loss as if they were gospel. You know—the usual.

Of course, this isn’t musically gospel. It’s primarily bossa nova, albeit with a stronger reliance on big string arrangements similar to those in baroque pop. Astrud Gilberto lacks vocal range, making the album somewhat repetitive in its allegiance to that and its suitable, midtempo pace.

However, Gilberto’s voice has more of an air of class and intellect than many of her contemporaries like Dusty Springfield (whom I love, by the way). Gilberto isn’t a showgirl like Springfield, coming across like an educated city girl, yet one you could come across on any Summer afternoon. There’s a distinct appeal there. The album’s short running time of 28 minutes means its repetition isn’t too bothersome, although it can make the experience feel longer than it truly is.

Recommended for ’60s pop fans. Hesitant listeners should stick to the bossa nova and baroque pop classics first (check your local RateYourMusic charts!) to make sure they have a taste for this sugary stuff. Looking for a place to start? Check out Getz/Gilberto, a bossa nova/samba jazz album where Astrud collaborates with her husband João Gilberto and saxophonist Stan Getz.