Best of NYC #51: Catarina Dos Santos

We continue our "Best of NYC Countdown", covering every day one of the artists that made our Year End Best of NYC list (a chart compiled by a jury comprised of local bloggers, music writers, promoters, record sotre personnel and DJs). Many of the bands in this list will play The Deli’s Best of NYC Fest in Williamsburg in May (6 shows in 3 different venues between the 13 and the 15).

It’s no surprise that singer-songwriter Catarina Dos Santos has a background in painting. Her visual experience is apparent in the bold, expressive strokes she paints in her colorful blend of Portuguese, Brazilian and African music. Last year, she released her debut album, “No Balanço do Mar,” a collection of songs that has pieced together her musical background in various pop, jazz, Brazilian, funk and African music projects. Although she sings in her native tongue, Portuguese, it’s easy to fall in love the striking songwriting and say, “É bonito!” -Nancy Chow