Os Brazões

Rare and highly sought after in its original format, Os Brazōes self-titled album was originally released on RGE Discos in 1969. It is a psychedelic masterpiece that fuses samba, r’n’b and rock ’n’ roll influences using fuzz guitars, synths, percussion, lush vocals and effects.

Os Brazōes formed in Rio de Janeiro in the late 1960’s. They supported Tom Zé and backed Gal Costa during her Tropicalia period, yet apparently never recorded in the studio with her. The album is peppered with alternative versions of songs by the movement’s stars, including Gilberto Gil’s ‘Pega a Voga, Cabeludo’ and Jorge Ben and Toquinho’s ‘Carolina, Carol Bela’. But Os Brazões manage to make them their own with their unique interpretations.

It’s on their own songs that Os Brazões really shine. Their wide sonic palette presents the listener with moments of dense beauty, experimentation and some serious funk. Exploring this mix of covers and self-penned songs, you get a genuine feeling for the influences, tastes and direction of the band. Os Brazões produced a classic of the Tropicalia movement and it’s a record that probably deserves to be ranked alongside Os Mutantes’ early output.

The Mr Bongo RSD Black Friday Edition features original artwork and orange splatter vinyl.