For the first time EVER, Os Novos Baianos are making the trip from Brasil to light the Jazz Is Dead stage on fire across the United States and Mexico. How the gods of Samba Rock and the pioneers of Brasilian fusion have kept North America waiting this long is a wonderful mystery — but we’re not about to miss it now! Acabou Chorare, their second album, was named by Rolling Stone #1 of the 100 greatest Brasilian albums of all time — and for good reason. From start to finish, this Brasilian gem is a rich, wild ride — a perfect blend of rock, samba, frevo and choro — a record you simply do not skip.
The story of Os Novos Baianos traces back to the rich musical scene of Salvador, Bahia in the late 1960s. It all started with Paulinho Boca de Cantor (vocals, pandeiro), Moraes Moreira (vocals, violão), Baby Consuelo — now Baby do Brasil — (vocals, percussion), and Luís Galvão (lyricist). Pepeu Gomes and his brother Jorginho were members of Os Leifs, a young psychedelic band who crossed paths with the future Novos Baianos in a twist of fate at the 1969 Barra 69 show alongside Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso. That encounter blossomed into a musical marriage — Os Leifs teamed up with Os Novos Baianos, adding bassist Dadi to the fold and taking their rich rhythms, wild guitars and soulful vocals to a whole new level.
During the years of Brasil’s military dictatorship, their communal lifestyle, their musical fusion, and their rebellious spirit made Os Novos Baianos a symbol of resistance and creativity. Living together first in Botafogo and then on a ranch in Jacarepaguá, the group challenged conformity and fought back through their art — turning their home into a refuge for freedom, collaboration, and hope in the face of oppressive regimes.
The band broke up in 1978, with its members pursuing successful solo careers — but nearly 60 years after their formation, Os Novos Baianos are boarding a plane to North America for the first time in their rich history. Get ready to experience their unique fusion of Rock, Samba, MPB and Brasilian folklore — a once-in-a-lifetime moment brought to you by ArtDontSleep at Jazz Is Dead. Be sure to grab your tickets while they last.