Bringing Brazil to the beach: Twin Cities-based group features South American flavor

• Viva Brazil

submitted photo Viva Brazil plays a variety of South American-influenced music, including Brazilian jazz, fusion and funk.

Talk about it

WORTHINGTON — Viva Brazil will bring a unique blend of Brazilian music to the shores of Lake Okabena at the Unvarnished Music Festival.

Based in Minneapolis, Viva Brazil is a high-energy band led by Altamir Coelho. Made up of four members, they play a variety of music including samba, Brazilian jazz, fusion and funk.

“I was working as a full-time musician in the Twin Cities, and I realized there were no projects with Brazilian pop music,” explained Coelho. “So I put a band together, and here we are.”

Coelho is the music director and bass player of the group. Rubens de Mello is the vocalist, while Jeoff Lacrone plays electric and acoustic guitar. Rei Rivera plays the drums. Wain McFarlane, who recruited Viva Brazil to play at the festival, will also appear onstage as a special guest.

Viva Brazil generally plays in the Twin Cities area and is a monthly performer at the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis.

“Brazilian music is difficult,” explained Coelho. “It’s as complex as jazz, but as fun as salsa.”

Coelho also added that tghe group have been getting a good response from the public, earning a reputation as being “unique and fresh.”

“We represent the Brazilian music industry,” said Coelho. “We try to make it a fun atmosphere where people can dance and just enjoy good music.”

Listeners can expect to hear Brazilian tunes in English and Portuguese, as well as American classics with a Brazilian spice.

“We just want to keep spreading Brazilian music throughout the country,” said Coelho. “It’s a great thing to showcase more of our culture.”

Viva Brazil will perform from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday on the Unvarnished Musical Festival stage.

Tags: regatta