Rhythm, improvisation, joie de vivre: far from summing up the career of “the ambassador of Brazilian jazz,” these qualities highlight the passion consuming Rodrigo Simoes since his earliest days. Often referred to as a “mosaic artist,” he highlights the groove in Brazilian beats and updates them in contemporary style.
Rodrigo’s first album, Aos Velhos Amigos, reflects his taste for blending and diversity: string instruments including the electric guitar, mandolin, viola caipira and classical guitar take pride of place its his compositions.
An expert in Brazilian beats, he moves between maracatú and forró as well as samba with disconcerting ease. Depending on his whims and inspirations, he sprinkles choro – a popular Brazilian instrumental style – with touches of jazz fusion, which he especially likes.
His favourite themes? Friendship, love and a passion for music, of course. Beneficent and liberating, music is often seen as a balm for the body and the heart, so much so that his latest album, Jazz brésilien, marked 2018 by being ranked among the top five jazz discs in Québec by Sorties Jazz Nights.
More than a tribute, Rommel Ribeiro and Rodrigo Simões are choosing to honour Gilberto Gil’s commitment and his challenges to Brazilian politics on both the musical and political scenes. His protest songs have left a mark on many minds. His repertory has stood the test of time and has inspired younger generations.
This amazing journey is what brought Rommel Ribeiro and Rodrigo Simões together. Their artistic communion has resulted in a remarkable immersion in the great master’s world, and this resonates from the very first notes.