Azul 29

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1982–1985

Genres

new wave, synthpop, post-punk

Instruments

guitar, keyboards, bass, drums, vocals

Biography

Azul 29 emerged on the Brazilian musical scene in April 1982 in the city of São Paulo, founded by guitarist Eduardo Amarante, a former member of the group Agentss, alongside Thomas Bielefeld. Initially exploring sounds linked to new wave and synthpop, the band expanded its lineup with the arrival of Malcolm Oakley and Thomas Susemihl following the official end of Agentss in 1983. This period of consolidation resulted in the release of EPs through the WEA label, marked by increasingly evident electronic arrangements.

The major milestone in the group's trajectory occurred in 1984, when they released their second self-titled EP containing the track "Videogame". The song catapulted Azul 29 to national success upon being included in the soundtrack of the film Bete Balanço, directed by Lael Rodrigues. Blending technological modernity and urban aesthetics, the group engaged with trends of the era that would later influence bands like ZERØ.

Despite the positive reception of their releases and strong radio presence, Azul 29 had a fleeting trajectory, ending its activities in 1985. With the band's end, its members pursued new paths in Brazilian music, leaving behind a cult-followed legacy within the electronic and alternative scene of the 1980s. The band's impact remains recorded in compilations dedicated to the period, such as the Não Wave project.

Discography

• Faixas Perdidas (2025)