Djangada [ Funky Brazilian Jazz]

“The distance across the ocean between Brazil and London becomes small in the hands of these great and talented musicians. Long live Djangada, long live Brazilian music” – D.Vyzor

​Fast emerging as the new Brazilian sound from the UK, Djangada‘s funky piano trio reworkings of classics from Gilberto Gil and Dorival Caymmi have captivated audiences all over. Their dynamic trio interplay comes from years of performing together as a rhythm section and is a thrill to witness live; a blend of traditional Brazilian music with a jazz aesthetic that is lively and accessible, but with a deep sense of craft and musicality.

The name Djangada comes from the name Jangada, a fishing boat found in northeast Brazil, the home of Afro-Brazilian rhythms. From here, Djangada draws their inspiration, transforming the classic songs of Bahia’s Dorival Caymmi and Gilberto Gil into punchy instrumental grooves. Paying homage to these greats, the trio brings the classic Bossa Nova piano trio sound associated with the 1960s into a new, funkier era. Their sound is characterised by meticulously crafted arrangements interspersed with raw, powerful grooves and joyous improvisation.

​Sam Watts (piano) and Matheus Nova (bass) have been playing together for several years and have formed the backbone of many brazilian rhythm sections in Europe over the years including those of Marcelo Andrade, Celeste Caramanna, Adriano Adewale, Luiz Morais, Luna Cohen, and Cosmo Sound Collective amongst others. When they met Marcinho Pereira (drums) in 2020 they decided to finally break out and do their own thing, and these years of musical communication and interplay are the foundation of the band’s sound.