Legendary Brazilian jazz-funk trio Azymuth return to Europe in 2025, supporting their new album Arabutã.
Responsible for forging an entirely new sound by fusing jazz-funk with samba to create their unique genre, “samba doido,” Azymuth are one of Brazil’s most influential bands and undoubtedly one of the world’s longest-running.
Having collaborated with a who’s who of Brazilian music during the golden era of MPB, including Jorge Ben, Milton Nascimento, Tim Maia, Elis Regina, and Marcos Valle, Azymuth’s impact is undeniable. It was Marcos Valle who bestowed the name “Azymuth” upon the trio in 1973 during the recording of his soundtrack for the film O Fabuloso Fittipaldi. That same year, Azymuth began recording their now critically acclaimed Demos (1973-75), which remained in their archives until 2019 when they were released by London-based label Far Out Recordings.
Fifty years since their inception, Azymuth has released over thirty albums and continues to perform with the same energy and enthusiasm as their early days. Their forthcoming album, Arabutã, derives its name from the Tupi Guarani word for the endangered Brazilwood tree. A symbol of both the value and fragility of Brazil’s natural beauty, Arabutã serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of indigenous wisdom in ecological preservation.
Beyond their influence on jazz and funk, Azymuth’s contribution to electronic music worldwide is undeniable. They have collaborated with artists like 4hero, Madlib, and Jazzanova, and been remixed by luminaries such as Theo Parrish, Ron Trent, Global Communication, and Daniel Maunick.
Following the passing of keyboard maestro José Roberto Bertrami in 2012 and drummer Ivan “Ivanzinho” Conti in early 2023, founding member Alex Malheiros has tirelessly upheld the spirit of Azymuth. He has enlisted keyboardist Kiko Continentino (Milton Nascimento, Gilberto Gil, Djavan), who co-wrote and recorded Azymuth’s critically acclaimed 2016 album Fenix, and drummer Renato Massa (Marcos Valle, Ed Motta) to carry the torch forward.
“Samba jazz legends” MOJO
“Innovators in dance/world fusion” Billboard
Line up
Alex Malheiros – Bass Guitar
Kiko Continentino – Keyboards
Renato Massa – Drums
