Bossa Nova Stories sumptuous appeal as a pianist and her skill for subtle, cozy arrangements, Elias seems the living, breathing extension of the oxymoronic plush minimalism that defines bossa nova." Ken Dryden of Allmusic stated "Eliane Elias returns to the music of her native Brazil with this collection of bossa nova favorites, though there are a few American standards and pop songs recast as bossa novas as well. The pianist has grown in confidence as a vocalist over the course of several CDs, developing a sexy yet never overdone style that beautifully complements the music. With her husband Marc Johnson (who has also
Bossa Nova U.S.A. the title track was released as a single (Columbia 42651) the last week of 1962, with "This Can't Be Love" as the B-side. This met with moderate success, peaking at #69 on the "Billboard" Hot 100. The album followed soon in early 1963. On release, "Billboard" called the album "first-class Brubeck." While noting the number of bossa tracks, it particularly singled out a re-working of "The Trolley Song" as a standout track. "The Age" expected the record to be popular with the general public, but noted "purists will wince." The album found more success with the public than the single,