The London-Maranhão Connection / Beauty & The Beat

The latest release from London collective Beauty & The Beat shines a spotlight on the music of Sao Luis, in Maranhao, Brazil, and the local trio, Loopcinico. Four tracks have been revived from the group’s 2013 album, and are now accompanied by 3 remixes. The originals are a melting pot of influences, reflecting the band members’ surroundings. Their rhythms inheriting, absorbing ingredients from Yoruba, Umbanda and Candomble. Both Kingston and Rio. The vibe is that of a real, proper, street carnival. Packed with propulsive, percussive energy that sits perfectly with the label’s previous Gwoka excursions. Demonstrating, clearly that these musics share the same ancestors. Upaon-Acu adds ethereal, siren-like scatting and cool contrabass to the scenes of crowd shouts and cheers. Calma-Cara features quickly, sharply picked and strummed, guitar, its electric Tuareg figures partying with buzzing rave synths. Curimbobata is a busy batucada drama of timbales and chants. Its bass surdo drum…