released: february 7, 2025

genre: bossa nova, indie

from: são paulo, brazil

label: innovative leisure

a few thoughts: as far as modern brazilian bossa nova and folk music is concerned, dadá joãozinho may be one of the most exciting emerging artists, creating some incredibly lush and detailed music. tds bem global, which was listed as one of my faves of 2023, showcased her versatility as an artist, combining modern r&b influences with a uniquely brazilian, bossa nova type production and funky energy that is utterly captivating from start to finish. 1997 is his new 5-track ep, a stunning body of work that focuses on emotive and soulful guitar-led melodies, with a modern, groovy energy to it that is just infectious from start to finish. from the light, playful opener “olha pra mim featuring” raça has a playful guitar groove and catchy hook, with a rumbling bassline and gorgeous vocals. “100 anos” has these emotive guitar leads and groovy beat to it, while the acoustic “subindo em árvore (de qualquer forma é grande)” is gorgeous, with incredible jazzy synth leads that sound like they are inspired by the jazzy, groovy shit tyler, the creator has been making in recent years. but it’s the emotion in his voice that makes this a beautiful moment on the project. the beat on “as coisas” is moody, reflective cut with an emphatic groove to it, a catchy melody and soulful vocals. it’s a melancholic yet beautiful track and one of the standouts on the ep. the quiet and gentle energy of “landa” closes the ep out beautifully, as it sounds like he’s floating on this sweet guitar-led melody, with gentle vocals that capture an intimacy that feels so beautiful and gentle. dadá joãozinho’s 1997 is a truly fantastic body of work that captures a gentle, soulful energy, while also speaking on youth culture and the political climate in brazil. go support!

the project: