Banda Zil

Years Active

1986–1988

Genres

jazz, MPB, instrumental music

Instruments

acoustic guitar, vocals, bass, drums, saxophone, electric guitar, keyboards

Biography

Banda Zil was a Brazilian musical group formed in 1986 and active until 1988, bringing together renowned musicians such as Zé Renato, Claudio Nucci, Ricardo Silveira, Marcos Ariel, Zé Nogueira, Jurim Moreira, and João Batista. The band's name, Zil, was an inspiration that sought to unite Brazil with international sounds, reflecting the group's musical proposal. Their sound blended MPB with jazz and world music influences, winning over a loyal audience and leaving a mark on the late 1980s.

The group released a single studio album in 1987, titled "Zil", which featured collaborations with renowned composers such as Moacir Santos, Milton Nascimento, and Aldir Blanc. The album was well received and later re-released on CD internationally, including the track "Song for a rainforest", which gained prominence on the American music charts. The band performed in nightclub circuits, such as Jazzmania in Rio de Janeiro, and participated in the Free Jazz Festival in São Paulo.

After ending their activities in 1988, the members pursued their solo careers, but maintained contact and friendship. In 2016, Banda Zil reunited to record a live album and an audiovisual project, titled "Zil ao Vivo", released in 2019. This reunion celebrated the band's legacy and allowed a new generation to discover the unique fusion of jazz and MPB that characterized the group.

Discography

• Zil (1987)
• Zil Ao Vivo (2019)