Mauricio Takara

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1998

Genres

experimental, jazz, electronic, post-rock, avant-garde

Instruments

drums, percussion, electronic programming, trumpet, sampler, vibraphone, harpsichord, gongs, field recordings

Biography

Born in São Paulo in 1982, Mauricio Takara began his musical journey at the age of seven with the acoustic guitar, quickly transitioning to drums by age nine. Throughout the 1990s, he was an active participant in the local hardcore punk scene. In 1998, Takara co-founded the influential band Hurtmold, which went on to release five albums on the Submarine label and is recognized as a significant voice in the post-Tropicalia movement in Brazilian music. He has also collaborated with a diverse range of Brazilian artists, including Nação Zumbi, Vanessa da Mata, Sabotage, and Marcelo Camelo, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to the Brazilian music landscape.

Takara launched his solo career in 2003 with his first album released on Desmonta Discos, followed by three more recordings on the same label, with "Sobre Todas e Qualquer Coisa" being the latest in 2010. His solo work often features him playing multiple instruments, including percussion, electronic programming, and trumpet, creating a unique and experimental sound. He is also known for his collaborations with international artists such as Pharoah Sanders, Archie Shepp, and Prefuse 73, as well as his involvement in projects in Chicago like the Exploding Star Orchestra. His music often blurs the lines between genres, incorporating elements of experimental jazz, electronic music, and avant-garde sounds.

Beyond his solo work and collaborations, Mauricio Takara is a member of the band São Paulo Underground, alongside trumpeter Rob Mazurek. He has toured extensively in Europe, the U.S., India, and Brazil, performing at notable festivals like Sonar and Roskilde. Takara's artistic approach is characterized by improvisation and a willingness to explore new sonic territories, making him a distinctive and respected figure in contemporary Brazilian and international experimental music scenes. His work with bands like Hurtmold and Instituto further solidifies his reputation as a dynamic and innovative percussionist and composer.