Clay Ross
Like a true southern preacher, Clay Ross delivers colorfully satirical lyrics reminiscent of David Byrne, Tom Ze, and Caetano Veloso. A virtuosic guitarist, his unique style combines the flatpicking prowess of bluegrass legend Tony Rice with the sonic depth of jazz master Bill Frisell, plucking three chord folk melodies or sophisticated Brazilian Choros with equal ease.
Rob Curto
Rob Curto is widely regarded as forró’s foremost ambassador in the States. An early devotee of North American swing music, bebop piano, funk, rock, and blues, he has combined these influences with his mastery of their Brazilian counterparts forró, chorinho, samba, maracatu, and frevo to produce stunning new results. He spent years living and playing in Brazil, completely absorbing and interpreting the country’s musical traditions.
Aynsley Powell
Aynsley Powell has performed and recorded with a diverse group of artists including St. Vincent, Kaki King, Autre Ne Veut, Lapland, and Tigercity. At home and eager to explore the freedom of acoustic improvisation, global rhythms, or the discipline of electronic dance music, Aynsley also has a penchant for songwriting as credited on recent albums by 70′s rock band, Wishbone Ash.
Itaiguara Brandão
Itaiguara is a New York City-based recording artist and bassist/guitarist. A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he has toured internationally and recorded extensively with a wide range of Latin and World Music artists such as: Marcos Valle, Paquito D’Rivera, Roberto Menescal, Carlos Lyra, Randy Brecker, Leny Andrade, Dom Salvador, and many others.
Zé Maurício
Ze Mauricio grew up immersed in the percussive traditions of his homeland. He is an original member of “Cyro Baptista’s Beat the Donkey” and performs with an eclectic blend of NYC bands. He is a master of the Pandiero (Brazilian Tamborine) and his vast palate of percussion sounds give Matuto a deep swinging dance groove.
