Dread Lion

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1991

Genres

reggae

Instruments

vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, drums, percussion, keyboards, saxophone, flute, trumpet, trombone, harmonica

Biography

Dread Lion is a Brazilian reggae band that emerged in Rio de Janeiro in 1991. Inspired by the rhythm and message of Jamaican reggae, the band quickly gained a following in the local scene, performing at universities and music venues. Their music resonated with a generation that was also embracing the sounds of artists like Gilberto Gil, Paralamas do Sucesso, and Cidade Negra, who were already demonstrating reggae's perfect fit within Brazilian musical and cultural landscapes.

The band's original lineup included Luís Carlinhos on vocals, acoustic guitar, and electric guitar; Guilherme Piau on bass; Pedro Paiva on drums and percussion; Guilherme Barros on keyboards; Rafael Velloso on saxophone and flute; and Daniel Castelo on trumpet and vocals. Over time, other musicians joined, including Pedro Tchuru on guitar, Marcelo Ratto on keyboards, João Bina on trombone and harmonica, and Lucas Amorim on percussion. Dread Lion's unique sound and compositions allowed them to tour across Brazil, solidifying their place in the national music scene.

Dread Lion's debut album, "Por Que Não Paz?" (Why Not Peace?), was independently recorded in 1997 and later re-released by Sony Music in 1999 with rerecorded tracks and a new song. The band achieved significant recognition, opening for international acts like The Wailers and Yellowman, and participating in the MTV Rockgol football tournament. Their music, characterized by its positive messages and infectious rhythms, has made them a significant name in Brazilian reggae, with vocalist Luís Carlinhos also pursuing a solo career.

Discography

• Por que Ñ Paz ? (1997)
• Já É! (2001)