Before tropicália, before bossa nova, and even before samba, choro was Brazil’s first music to travel the world, its first musical innovation to gain plaudits, as well as criticism, from nationalists who despised its co-option of traits from jazz. Such is the life of those who break the mould. In the hands of Pixinguinha and co, what’s certain is that choro had an impact, and it’s continued to this day, albeit it’s often over-shadowed by the genres that have arrived since.
Henrique Rocha hails from Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais, where he played percussion during carnival and other events. A teacher, as well as musician and producer, he has since become part of a thriving choro scene in São Paulo, which is where the tracks that comprise Dois Choros (Two Choros) were recorded. Their idea was simple, to record choro the way it’s performed, with a tight group of musicians (tambourine, plucked strings and wind instruments) playing in a circle (a roda). This is where it’s at its most infectious, full of life, the musicians seeming to bounce off each other, the interplay completely in unison.
credits
released December 9, 2022
Written, arranged and produced by Henrique Rocha
Mandolin: Lucas Gomes
Clarinet/Tenor Saxophone: Salomão Sidharta
Cavaco: Guilherme Sakamuta
7 String Guitar: Kevin Augusto
6 String Guitar Henrique Rocha
Pandeiro: Rafael Toledo
Cover photo: Macko
Recorded at BASE Co. studio in São Paulo, Brazil.
Mixed and Mastered by Henrique Rocha.
Beautiful compilation made with passion and love - albums like this are so important for documenting scenes and I'm so glad S&C are sharing this music with the world xx henryweekes
Former member of Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80 unveils a rich, swinging new record that pulls from jazz and soul in its high-wattage songs. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 24, 2024