Every Deodato Album Ranked Best to Worst

This landmark album reshaped fusion by turning Strauss into a chart-topping funk anthem. Dropping the needle on Also Sprach Zarathustra reveals an ultra-wide soundstage where Ron Carter’s bass rolls effortlessly into crisp brass hits. It remains an undisputed crown jewel of 1970s jazz production.

A fiery follow-up that pushes electric keyboards and syncopated grooves to their absolute limit. The muscular arrangement of Super Strut showcases stunning channel separation with zero inner-groove congestion on original pressings.

Recorded in Brazil just before his CTI breakout, this masterpiece captures Deodato’s brilliant transitional period. Rich acoustic soundscapes blend seamlessly with early fusion instincts and intricate horn arrangements.

Expanding his signature orchestral funk sound, Deodato delivers a stunning interpretation of Ravel’s Pavane alongside high-octane jam cuts. Drums carry immense weight with razor-sharp transient detail.

Transitioning into sleek late-70s disco-fusion, this record features top-shelf studio musicianship and shimmering synth layers. The warm analog mastering renders tight synth bass and crystal-clear percussion accents.

A legendary collaboration with João Donato that sizzles with raw organ funk and bossa jazz grooves. The rhythmic interplay creates a lush, deeply textured acoustic environment that shines on high-end analog setups.

Deodato’s full-length debut is a sublime exercise in bossa nova orchestration. The delicate acoustic guitar work and rich string sections float smoothly across a pristine, intimate soundstage.

Serves as an exquisite film soundtrack filled with cinematic Brazilian jazz textures and romantic woodwinds. The wide stereo mix provides wonderful spatial separation between acoustic instruments.

A lush, symphonic jazz-funk outing that fuses classical themes with heavy funk rhythm sections. High-frequency brass flourishes remain vibrant and free of unwanted sibilance.

Injects heavy dancefloor energy into technical fusion structures with swirling keyboards and driving disco grooves. The bass punch is exceptionally full and rounded across both sides.

Capturing fiery organ grooves recorded during his prime era in Brazil, this set pulsates with rhythmic energy. The analog organ tones pack a rich mid-frequency bite that electrifies the soundstage.

An exceptional archival release highlighting Deodato’s instrumental organ trio and big band arrangements. The raw horn charts cut through with remarkable clarity and vintage analog warmth.

A sleek, synth-heavy early-80s boogie effort featuring infectious rhythm guitar chops and punchy electric bass. The production is polished to perfection with sharp stereo imaging.

Dedicated entirely to the breezy compositions of Marcos Valle, this record offers smooth bossa nova piano leads and light percussion. The dynamic range is intimate and relaxed.

Full of bright 1980s R&B horn stabs and smooth funk arrangements, showcasing Deodato’s crossover adaptability. The high end is glossy yet balanced nicely by fat synth basslines.

Featuring the famous funk update of Peter and the Wolf, this album leans heavily into disco rhythms. The soundstage is wide, though some tracks lean slightly bright on high frequencies.

Dipped heavily in mid-80s digital synthesizer layers and electronic drum machine patterns. It remains a fascinating artifact for fans of electro-funk arrangements and crisp studio production.

A late-career studio return featuring guest spots from Al Jarreau and Londonbeat. The modern digital recording translates to dead-silent vinyl backgrounds with thick lower-end synth tones.

Late-80s smooth jazz production takes center stage here, prioritizing polished saxophone melodies and electric piano pads. The mix is spacious, though lacking his classic 70s analog grit.

Deodato returns to his acoustic bossa nova roots for this charming cinematic score. While smooth and pleasant, it serves more as background lounge atmosphere than a standalone fusion statement.