Leela

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

2001

Genres

pop rock, alternative rock

Instruments

guitar, bass, drums, vocals

Biography

Leela is a Brazilian pop rock band founded in Rio de Janeiro in 2001, with its original lineup consisting of Bianca Jhordão on vocals and guitar, Rodrigo Brandão on guitar and backing vocals, Guilherme Dourado on bass, and Fabiano Paz on drums. Throughout its trajectory, the group also featured other bassists, such as Melvin and Kátia Dotto. The quartet's sound seeks inspiration from independent bands from Rio de Janeiro and 1990s American alternative rock acts.

National recognition came after the release of a self-titled demo tape in 2001, which led the band to tour various festivals across the country. In 2003, the group signed a contract with the Arsenal label, affiliated with the EMI record company, resulting in the release of their debut album the following year. Over the years, the band expanded its artistic work with projects like the live-streamed show #LeelaLive and collaborations with artists such as Fausto Fawcett in a series of singles released starting in 2018.

Throughout its career, the group has accumulated important recognitions, including the Breakthrough Band award at the 2005 VMB and the Innovative Work trophy at the Prêmio Mãos e Mentes que Brilham in 2009. In their discography, notable highlights include appearances on compilations and tributes, such as the DVD dedicated to Renato Russo, cementing their space in the independent scene and national rock alongside acts like Los Hermanos and Pitty.

Discography

• Prema Kanuka (2000)
• Leela (2004)
• Pequenas Caixas (2007)
• Música Todo Dia (2012)