Hanoi Hanoi

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1985–1995, 2003-present

Genres

pop rock, new wave

Instruments

bass, guitar, drums, percussion, vocals, keyboard

Biography

Hanoi Hanoi is a Brazilian pop rock band formed in 1985 in Rio de Janeiro. The band emerged from a partnership between poet Tavinho Paes and bassist Arnaldo Brandão, who already had experience in groups such as A Bolha and Brylho, in addition to having accompanied artists like Caetano Veloso. The initial lineup was completed by guitarist Affonsinho and drummer Pena.

The group gained notoriety with their self-titled debut album, released in 1986, which spawned hits such as "Totalmente Demais" (later recorded by Caetano Veloso) and "Bla, bla, bla... Eu Te Amo" (known in Lobão's voice as "Rádio Blá"). Their second record, "Fanzine" (1988), featured "O Tempo Não Pára", a partnership between Brandão and Cazuza, which also became a massive success. The third album, "O Ser e o Nada" (1990), was inspired by the existentialism of Jean-Paul Sartre. Hanoi Hanoi had a landmark moment when they participated in Rock in Rio II in 1991, replacing Barão Vermelho.

After releasing further albums like "Coração Geiger" (1992) and "Credus" (1995), the band ended its activities in 1995, but returned to the stage starting in 2003, driven by 80s nostalgia. In 2017, the band reunited to record the live album "30 Anos na Insanidade", celebrating over 30 years of career and featuring special guests. Hanoi Hanoi's sound is marked by a blend of pop rock, new wave, funk, ska and reggae, with poetic and at times ironic lyrics.

Discography

• Hanoi-Hanoi (1986)
• Totalmente Demais (1986)
• Fanzine (1988)
• Cheira Confusão (1989)
• O Ser e o Nada (1990)
• Coração Geiger (1992)
• Palco (Ao Vivo) (1994)
• Credus (1995)
• 30 Anos na Insanidade (Ao Vivo) (2025)