Iconili

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Years active

2006

Genres

instrumental, afrobeat, jazz, psychedelic rock, world music

Instruments

saxophone, guitar, keyboard, trombone, trumpet, percussion, bass, theremin, djun djuns, djambê, congas, pandeiro, drums, synth, clarone, flute

Biography

Iconili is a Brazilian instrumental band formed in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, in 2006. The group is known for its unique blend of timbres, creating a trance-like atmosphere that draws from diverse influences such as jazz, African music, rock, and Brazilian rhythms. Their sound is often described as "tropical psychedelia," a fusion that melds disparate elements into a cohesive and danceable whole.

The band's instrumentation is expansive, typically featuring a large ensemble of musicians playing a variety of instruments including saxophones, guitars, keyboards, trombones, trumpets, and a robust rhythm section with multiple percussionists. Over the years, Iconili has evolved, notably incorporating vocalizations, though not in a traditional lyrical sense, but rather as another instrumental layer to their complex arrangements. This evolution was particularly evident in their album "Quintais," which explored "afro-brasilidades" and regional Brazilian sounds.

Iconili's music often evokes a sense of place, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and culture of Minas Gerais. Their work has been recognized for its sophisticated arrangements and its ability to transport listeners through a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions. They have collaborated with notable artists, including Oghene Kologbo, a guitarist who played with Fela Kuti's Africa 70, further cementing their connection to the afrobeat tradition while forging their own distinct path in the Brazilian instrumental music scene.