Sabler’s Jobim Tribute is a biographic, musical masterpiece
What can 10 questions with guitarist Les Sabler reveal? A lifelong passion for Brazilian jazz.
Originally published on March 25, 2014.
2014 marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of Brazil’s greatest songwriter, Antonio Carlos Jobim. With the number of exciting Brazilian releases on the rise this year, guitarist Les Sabler’s ‘Jobim Tribute’ album has been a surprising summer hit. Recently we sat down with Les Sabler to learn more about him and the story behind his latest recording.
10 Questions With Guitarist Les Sabler
How did the idea for ‘Jobim Tribute’ come about? You traveled to Brazil before recording ‘Jobim Tribute’. Tell us about your trip.
It was wonderful. I went in 2010 and visited Rio and Iguassu Falls. The sights were amazing, and to experience some of the culture was very inspiring.
What’s the one memory that stands out from that trip?
I love seeing waterfalls, and Iguassu was spectacular. Rainbows were everywhere; the scenery was exceptionally beautiful.
What’s the one ‘chore’ that you hate to do?
I can’t think of one! I even enjoy the most menial of tasks, like cleaning and laundry.
10 Questions With Guitarist Les Sabler
A Canadian living in Florida playing Brazilian music. How did that come about?
I learned to play some of Jobim’s music when I studied music at Concordia University in Montreal. Around that time Michael Franks was very popular, and Jobim was a huge influence on his music. I was also a big fan of Santana back then and loved his version of Stone Flower.
After I moved to Florida in ’78 and started gigging professionally, I typically included some Jobim’s music when performing. I never thought about recording any of his compositions until after my visit to Brazil.
I came home from that trip with a bundle of CDs that opened my ears to a lot more of Jobim’s work than I was familiar with. When I listened to them, I could hear myself making a statement with some of these tunes and then spent the next few years practicing them almost every day.
What is a typical day in your life like?
I manage commercial properties and keep pretty busy during the week. After hours I spend most of my time working on my music or keeping active with a variety of sports. I have a cute Havanese dog and love spending time with him.
10 Questions With Guitarist Les Sabler
Many fans know you for your contemporary jazz recordings. How did that style influence your approach to ‘Jobim Tribute’?
On my CD Sweet Drive, I recorded nylon-string guitar for the first time on a few selections, and on the follow-up, Crescent Shores, I played nylon-string exclusively. I felt that I had developed a distinct expressive voice with this instrument and received very favorable feedback in that regard. I developed a passion for Latin rhythms when I was living and gigging in Miami in the late 70s to early 80s, and I also love the 1970s CTI recordings.
These elements have been present in my previous recordings and woven into the arrangements on Jobim Tribute.
What was the most impactful moment in your career as a musician?
There have been so many exceptional moments, so it is hard to point to only one. Early on in my teens, I remember one jam session with some friends where I felt a spiritual experience when we were drifting into some improvisation way beyond my technical level, and I knew at that moment that I would pursue music for the rest of my life.
If you could play with any other musician, who would that be?
Dead or alive? If time travel is an option, I would like to play with Miles Davis. As a more practical answer, I would like to play with my favorite guitarist, Larry Carlton. I met him a few times – he is a wonderful person and an amazing musician.
Les Sabler, Away From Music
Everyone has a hobby… what’s yours?
I have several. For instance, I enjoy photography and various sports. And I love playing hockey and am active in a league here in Tampa and really like golf and tennis.
What words of wisdom guide your life?
Pursue everything in life diligently, work relentlessly to develop your skill, enjoy sharing with others, and adhere to a value system of honesty and integrity. Don’t take anything for granted, be grateful for what you have, be a good friend, always try to be considerate of others, be open-minded, and remain optimistic about the future.
Most important is for God to be your guide and source of your strength.
10 Questions With Guitarist Les Sabler
Music, Travel, Friends, And Fun!
Stories like ‘10 Questions With Guitarist Les Sabler’ are what we do. Why don’t you join us?
Sign up for our e-letter. Listen to Brazil Back2Back on demand and our live streaming station. Explore our top stories, our Music Charts, and streaming channels, always free. Like our Facebook page, and follow us on X (Twitter) and Instagram.
