Mombojó

Origin

Recife, PE

Years Active

2001

Genres

indie rock, MPB, alternative rock, experimental, manguebeat

Instruments

vocal, guitar, keyboard, sampler, bass, drums, cavaquinho, flute, trombone, seven-string acoustic guitar

Biography

Formed in April 2001 in the city of Recife, Mombojó emerged as one of the most innovative names in the post-Manguebeat music scene of Pernambuco. Combining instrumentation that merges guitars and synthesizers with the sound of the cavaquinho, the group gained national prominence right from their early performances at festivals such as Abril pro Rock. The band is recognized for their sonic maturity and their ability to transition between indie rock, experimental jazz, and MPB, always with sensitive lyrics and detailed arrangements.

Their debut album, 'Nadadenovo' (2004), was a milestone in their career, originally released as an insert in OutraCoisa magazine, spearheaded by musician Lobão. The work earned them flattering comparisons to names like Fred 04 (from Mundo Livre S/A) and Jorge Ben, solidifying the band as one of the great promises of Brazilian alternative rock. Over the years, the group maintained an avant-garde stance, being one of the pioneers in Brazil to use Creative Commons licenses for the free distribution of their music on the internet.

The band's trajectory was also marked by moments of resilience, such as the early loss of member Rafael Vital ('Rafa' or 'Pirulito') in 2007, and the subsequent departure of Marcelo Campello. Even with the lineup changes, Mombojó continued to produce acclaimed works such as 'Homem-Espuma' and 'Amigo do Tempo'. The band maintained their relevance by participating in major events like Lollapalooza and collaborating with various sectors of the arts, culminating in audiovisual projects like the feature film 'Deságua' and thematic albums like 'Carne de Caju'.

Discography

• Nadadenovo (2004)
• Homem-Espuma (2006)
• Amigo do Tempo (2010)
• 11º Aniversário (2011)
• Alexandre (2014)
• Mombojó no Estúdio Showlivre (Ao Vivo) (2019)
• Deságua (Trilha Sonora Original do Filme) (2020)
• What Will You Grow Now? (2023)
• Carne de Caju (2024)
• SOLAR (2026)