Banda Mel

Origin

Salvador, BA

Also known as

Bamdamel, Bamda Mel

Years active

1984–2002; 2014; 2024

Genres

axé, samba-reggae

Instruments

baixo elétrico, violão, percussão, guitarra, cavaquinho, bateria, teclados, vocal

Biography

Banda Mel, later known as Bamdamel, is a Bahian musical group that emerged in Salvador, Bahia, in 1984, initially as a carnival block called Bloco Mel. In 1987, the band established itself as a musical group, becoming one of the pioneers of axé music and samba-reggae in Brazil. Throughout its trajectory, the band has released over 15 albums, both studio and live, and scored several hits that marked the Bahian carnival and Brazilian music, such as "Faraó (Divindade do Egito)", "Prefixo de Verão", "Baianidade Nagô", "Ladeira do Pelô", "Bateu Saudade" and "Crença e Fé".

The band went through several line-ups throughout its history, with the second line-up, which featured Márcia Short, Róbson, Alobêned Airam, Jailton Dantas, Dito Régis, Guto Guitar, Orlando Costa, Dal Batera and Fernando Padre, considered by many to be the most successful and enduring. This phase was responsible for acclaimed albums such as "Força Interior" (1987), which sold over a million copies, "E Lá Vou Eu" (1988), "Negra" (1991) and "Mãe Preta" (1993). Banda Mel's musicality has always stood out for the fusion of afro-brazilian rhythms with caribbean and latin influences, consolidating its identity in the musical scene.

After a period of inactivity, Banda Mel announced its return to the stage in 2024, celebrating its 40-year career with special performances, including the Salvador Carnival and the recording of a commemorative DVD. In 2025, they released the live album "Banda Mel – 40 anos", gathering their greatest hits. The band is recognized not only for its contribution to axé music, but also for its ability to reinvent itself and keep alive the contagious energy that consecrated it as one of the great names of Bahian music.