Azymuth Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is Azymuth? A Brief Career Overview

Meet Azymuth, the pioneering Brazilian jazz-funk trio that has etched its name in the annals of music history. Comprised of the extraordinarily talented musicians José Roberto Bertrami, Alex Malheiros, and Ivan Conti, Azymuth has been charming audiences since the early 1970s with their inventive mix of Brazilian rhythms, jazz, samba, and electronic influences. Fondly known as "Samba Doido," meaning "Crazy Samba," their sound transcends traditional genres, capturing the hearts of music lovers and collectors alike!

Azymuth's impact on the music industry is undeniable. Their fusion of styles, notably showcased in their hit single "Jazz Carnival," set them apart as innovators in the jazz and disco scenes, while also making them favorites among DJs and vinyl collectors. With a catalog that boasts over two dozen albums and numerous iconic vinyl releases, Azymuth has not only influenced countless artists and producers but has also carved a special niche in the vinyl culture. This trio's legacy continues to resonate, ensuring that their music remains a staple on record players around the world for generations to come!

Azymuth's Early Life and Background

Azymuth's origins trace back to the vibrant musical landscape of Rio de Janeiro, where the trio members were immersed in the sounds of bossa nova and jazz from a young age. José Roberto Bertrami, born into a vibrant community filled with musical potential, began his journey on the piano, while Alex Malheiros fell in love with the electric bass, showcasing a natural flair for rhythm. Ivan Conti, their rhythmic cornerstone, developed his passion for percussion in the lively streets of Copacabana.

The camaraderie between the musicians blossomed in their youth while performing in local bars, ultimately leading to their collaboration as Group Projeto 3 in 1968. These early experiences in the beautiful chaos of Brazilian music not only shaped their artistic voices but also laid the groundwork for their future exploration of vinyl--experiences that colored their interactions with the music that would eventually define them.

The Musical Influences That Shaped Azymuth's Sound

Azymuth drew inspiration from a tapestry of musical legends, seamlessly weaving elements of jazz, samba, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) into their evolving sound. Influences such as the euphoric melodies of Marcos Valle and the intricate instrumentals of Weather Report can be heard resonating throughout their innovative compositions.

Their "Samba Doido" style reflects their admiration for the groove-laden jazz-funk, where the intricacies of jazz harmonics meld beautifully with infectious Brazilian rhythms. During their formative years, Azymuth also sought out vinyl records of their favorite artists, appreciating the tactile nature of music that only a record player can provide; this passion for collecting shaped their affinity for vinyl culture and undeniable authenticity in their outputs.

How Azymuth Entered the Music Industry

Azymuth's journey into the music industry began in the intimate settings of Rio's cabarets and nightclubs, where they showcased their unique sound to captivated audiences. As they honed their craft, their first significant recording came under the name Azymuth--resulting in their self-titled EP that quickly garnered attention and sparked interest from music producers. The trio made waves with their self-titled LP, featuring hit singles like "Manha" and "Faca de Conta", which solidified their presence in the Brazilian music scene.

Despite traditional barriers, Azymuth's determination allowed them to flourish; their signature sound emerged from experimentation with blending genres, which led to successful partnerships and eventual vinyl production. The decade of the 70s was transformative, as they garnered a record deal with Milestone Records and recorded their second album, 'Águia Não Come Mosca,' paving the way for further exploration of their musical identity.

Azymuth's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

Their breakthrough moment came with the release of the landmark album 'Light as a Feather' in 1979, featuring the hit single "Jazz Carnival" that captured the world's attention and helped redefine jazz-funk. The album's vibrant vinyl recording not only rose to commercial success in multiple countries but also established Azymuth as a force in the global music scene.

As audiences became enchanted with their sound, they saw a surge in critical acclaim and recognition, including significant sales milestones and impressive chart positions. Their dazzling performances at major jazz festivals further solidified their reputation as leaders of the jazz-funk movement, and the honors and accolades began rolling in, crafting an illustrious career steeped in musical excellence.

How Personal Life Shaped Azymuth's Music

In the heart of their sound lies a rich narrative of personal experiences and relationships that have profoundly influenced Azymuth's emotive compositions. Each band member brings their story to the music--whether it's the uplifting spirit drawn from their Brazilian roots or the painful reflections stemming from significant losses, like that of José Roberto Bertrami in 2012, and more recently, Ivan Conti in 2023. These moments of vulnerability have inspired themes woven into their lyrics and musical arrangements.

Azymuth's commitment to social causes and community engagement also resonates through their work, with a philanthropic spirit that shines through in their music. Their dedication to championing diverse narratives and perspectives has made them role models to many aspiring musicians, and their journey includes a resilience that speaks to their growth and evolution as artists in changing times.