Los Sea Dux

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1990

Genres

surf music, ska, funk, soul, jazz, latin, mambo

Instruments

guitar, bass, drums, brass, percussion

Biography

Los Sea Dux was a Brazilian band formed in São Paulo in 1990. Initially a surf music trio, the group expanded its influences to incorporate elements of funk, soul, jazz, ska, and latin rhythms, which earned them the nickname "funk-surf-soul-latin-ska-pop octet". The name "Sea Dux" (which is a bilingual blend meaning "sea ducks") was chosen as a reference to surf music and a more relaxed attitude, in contrast to the image of the "bad and smartass" rocker. Later, the addition of "Los" to the name resulted in "Los Sea Dux", a joke that, according to the members, alluded to the acronym "LSD", although unintentional.

The band gained notoriety in the underground circuit of São Paulo and released their first record as an EP through the independent label Fishy Records in 1997. This initiative, led by Daniel Pompeu de Toledo, aimed to revive the charm of EP vinyl records, which at the time were already rare in Brazil. The pressing was done in California, and the release was accompanied by a music video for the song "Funky Ufo", which premiered in July 1997. Los Sea Dux also participated in the compilation "Mix Music 1997" by Mercado Mundo Mix, and planned to record an independent CD in August of the same year.

The band's vocalist, Rodrigo, also known as MTV VJ Rodrigo B-Funk, described the group as "kids, bosses" (moleques, patões). The eclectic sound and irreverent attitude consolidated Los Sea Dux as a cult band in the Brazilian independent scene. Although they did not achieve mainstream stardom, they left their mark on the São Paulo music scene of the 90s, with a sound that mixed influences in an original and fun way. The band even opened shows for the American group Man or Astroman? on their first tour of Brazil.

Discography

• Dux Demo