released: june 2nd, 2026

genre: nova- mpb /experimental

from: vitória da conquista, brazil

label: cantores del mundo

a few thoughts: cajupitanga is a duo of talented brazilian artists candioco and gabriel tupy. ubá (2019 – 2024) is my first introduction to the group, and I am floored by the detailed production and arrangements across the 18 tracks. it feels like a collage of field recordings, beautiful guitar melodies, vocals and other samples that create this intricate, sometimes overwhelming listening experience. the warm and inviting energy of the opener “lida” sets the tone for the rest of the album, with woozy guitar leads and incredible meditative sonic textures that are just stunning from start to finish. there are many ambient and mellow moments on the album, as the duo tries to capture the ethereal beauty of the world around them while also keeping dynamic nature of brazilian life rooted in their sound. the delicate “quermesse” is an example of this smooth and angelic sound, while “as corbeta” has wailing and emphatic guitar leads that contrast the softness of the first two tracks. “não deve ser difícil não” is an early standout for me, with off-kilter drumming and soothing energy complemented by vocals and other effects that add to the grandiose composition. the swirling, reversed synths of “rio de contas” are gorgeous, while “payaso que mira” is another disorienting, interesting listen, as it combines brass-led melody with punchy drumming and light guitar melodies. the cacophony of the track leads into the overwhelming “encarei bobo”, while “sobrado” features a gentle guitar melody that feels soft and light. the reverb on “arruada” makes it a dense listen, while “palavras de vento” features this sweet melody that contrasts the harshness of some of the previous tracks. “o não” is gorgeous too, with its gentle guitar melodies. at the same time, “sete bicos” has this gentle and subdued energy, driven by the soothing vocals throughout, piano-led compositions and guitar melodies that blend effortlessly into the delicate and otherworldly “cordillera”. “enterro” is a special track, with disorienting effects and guitar-led melodies that meet stunning saxophone leads and frantic drumming. the striking synth-led energy of “bailarim” is fantastic, while the wailing and cacophonous guitar leads on “coração” are overwhelming. “sierra de cerca” and “se a madrugada” close the album out with two gorgeous and gentle compositions that feel earthly, warm and reflective. the gentle guitar leads are tender and ethereal, perfectly capturing the purity and essence of brazilian music. ubá (2019 – 2024) is a special project highlighting the sound and energy of a colourful and vibrant country.

the album: