"BRAZILIAN BEAT," various acts (Putumayo)

Despite what the calendar says, it's always summerlike in most of Brazil. And the nation's most famous music forms are sultry, evoking feelings of sensual, tropical warmth.

So the new compilation "Brazilian Beat" could be as effective an anti-winter remedy as an electric blanket for those of us currently in North America.

The release features many young acts from the South American country (and elsewhere), and they embellish Brazil's rich music genres with electronic and other modern touches. But, fortunately, they don't over-tweak tradition, and "Brazilian Beat" is steeped in samba and bossa nova.

The predominant sound features seductive female vocals and sumptuous rhythms that combine for an irresistible, sophisticated air. Foremost among these are the muted-horn-accented "Samba no Mao, Eu Tenho" by Tamy, the stylishly surreal "Ai Entao" by Monica da Silva, the vibes-kissed "Minha Loucura" by BungaLove and the percussion-crazed "A Conta do Samba" by Tita Lima.

Those are the best tracks, though male vocals lead on other fine cuts, especially Roge's simmering, clavinet-laced "A Nega e o Malandro." Also, Brazilian Groove Band's instrumental "Bananeira," driven by the honking funk of saxophonist Leo Gandelman, is a lively diversion from the overall laid-back atmosphere of "Brazilian Beat."

The other cuts aren't quite so intriguing.

Rating: 4