Brazilian jazz-funk trio Azymuth celebrated more than 50 years of music-making with a special performance at London's Union Chapel on October 12. The Rio de Janeiro-born band, known for their self-defined "crazy samba" sound, delivered an extensive set that paid tribute to their enduring legacy and original line-up.
A Legendary Career Spanning Decades
Azymuth were founded in the 1970s in Rio De Janeiro and achieved international success with their early releases. Their 1979 hit Jazz Carnival reached number 19 in the UK singles chart, cementing their place in music history. The band's discography includes more than 30 albums, from the dreamy, rhythmic jazz of Telecommunication to the pulsating synth-funk of recent album Marca Passo, released on London label Far Out Recordings.
The trio's influence extends far beyond their own recordings. The tender tones of the Fender Rhodes keyboard, a staple on all of their records, have been sampled in countless hip-hop tunes throughout the decades. Artists such as Madlib, J Dilla, and even Will.i.am of Black Eyed Peas have drawn from their rich musical palette.
A Night of Tributes and Improvisation
Bass player Alex Malheiros, the only surviving founding member, was the clear focal point of the evening. Dressed in a black suit, sunglasses, and a singular black glove, Mr Malheiros played with bravado and swagger, slapping his bass guitar throughout the two-hour set. More recent members Dudu Viana on keys and Renato "Massa" Calmon on drums spent large portions of the show paying tribute to the bassist and the band's original line-up.
There was a palpable sense that sharing the stage with one of Brazil's musical icons was an honour of a lifetime for the current members. This appreciation was matched by a roaring reception from the audience, who were clearly aware they were in the presence of genuine musical legends.
A Setlist Spanning the Band's Evolution
No stone was left unturned throughout the set. The band played recognisable hits like Morning and Last Summer in Rio but also took the audience on 17-minute-long improvisational jams, switching between instruments and vocal melodies. At one point, all three musicians abandoned their instruments and picked up an array of native Brazilian percussive instruments, mimicking the sound of frogs and Amazonian creatures.
The 19th-century gothic church, steeped in sincerity and boasting a rich history, provided the perfect setting for a band whose legacy is revered among music fans, young and old alike. When the band came off stage, there was a standing ovation and a 10-minute applause from the awe-struck crowd.
A Special Night Not to Be Taken for Granted
With Mr Malheiros in his 80s, there was a collective understanding that catching this band while they are still performing should not be taken for granted. The band do not tour regularly, and there are no assurances they will continue playing their iconic music in the years to come. It was a special night in a special venue, a fitting tribute to a band that has had an immeasurable influence on making Brazilian music global.
