Azymuth
Azymuth is a Brazilian instrumental band formed in Rio de Janeiro in 1969. The group is known for its distinctive sound, a blend of samba, jazz, rock, and funk, which they often refer to as "samba doido" (crazy samba).
Azymuth's core members have included José Roberto Bertrami (keyboards, piano, synthesizer), Alex Malheiros (bass), and Ivan Conti (drums, percussion). Bertrami passed away in 2012, but Malheiros and Conti have continued to tour and record under the Azymuth name, often collaborating with other musicians.
The band gained international recognition in the 1970s with albums such as Azimuth (1975), Light as a Feather (1979), and Outubro (1980). Their music has been sampled by numerous artists across various genres, contributing to its enduring appeal. Azymuth is considered a pioneering force in Brazilian music and has significantly influenced the development of jazz-funk and electronic music scenes worldwide. Their extensive discography includes numerous studio albums, live recordings, and compilations, showcasing their innovative and influential sound.