R.RIBEIRO + R.SIMOES

R. RIBEIRO & R. SIMÕES Rommel Ribeiro A lyricist, composer, performer and guitarist, Rommel Ribeiro was born into a family of artists in Brazil. An obvious path led him at an early age to discover great Brazilian musicians such as Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Alceu Valença, Chico César and Lenine. He arrived in Canada in 2006 after the release of his début album, Transcendantal. At that time, he performed at leading events such as the Montréal International Jazz Festival, the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Vive Latino, the Ottawa Bluesfest and Global Groove in Toronto. With his second album, Egológico Recycle, Rommel perfected his style, blending Brazilian popular music, Afrobeat, reggae, funk and jazz. His talent, originality and bold collaborations soon earned him several awards, including recognition as Radio-Canada 2012-2013 world music Revelation. In 2015, he released the album Nada Direito and moved to England. He took the opportunity to perform on various stages in the United Kingdom, Portugal, France, Holland, Belgium and Germany. Back in Canada in 2016, Rommel continued his stage performances with his Canadian group, in settings that included Montréal’s 375th birthday festivities. His latest album, Caminho de Vento, came out in 2018, culminating in a Brazilian tour. Rodrigo Simões Rhythm, improvisation, joie de vivre, are not enough to sum up the career of the “ambassador of Brazilian jazz,” these facets highlight the passion that has devoured Rodrigo Simões since his early days. Often referred to as a “mosaic artist,” he features the groove of Brazilian beats and updates them in a contemporary style. His début album, Aos Velhos Amigos, reflects Rodrigo’s taste for blending and diversity, string instruments such as the electric guitar, mandolin, viola caipira and classical guitar find a special place in his compositions. As an expert in Brazilian beats, he moves with disconcerting ease between maracatú, forró and samba. In line with his desires and inspirations, he sprinkles choro – a popular instrumental musical style – with touches of fusion jazz, much beloved by him. His favourite themes? Friendship, love and, of course, a passion for music. Soothing and liberating, his music is often regarded as a balm for the body and the heart, so much so that his latest album, Jazz brésilien, ranked among the top five Québec jazz discs in 2018 as selected by Sorties Jazz Nights. ********* In what is more than a tribute, Rommel Ribeiro and Rodrigo Simões have chosen to honour the commitment of Gilberto Gil, who defied Brazilian politics on both the musical and governmental scenes. His protest songs have left their mark on many minds. His repertory has stood the test of time and has inspired younger generations. This amazing journey laid the groundwork for the encounter between Rommel Ribeiro and Rodrigo Simões. From their artistic communion stems a remarkable immersion in the world of the master, which will echo the resounding success of the project’s first public presentation at the Club Balattou last fall.