Rafael Crespo

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1999

Genres

rock, punk, post-punk, indie rock, underground

Instruments

vocals, guitar, drums

Biography

Rafael Crespo is a Brazilian musician with an established career in the country's independent and underground rock scene. Born in Rio de Janeiro, his musical journey began with the band Elroy, where he started singing and writing lyrics. Later, he founded the band Polara alongside Carlos Dias, taking on both drums and guitar at different stages of the group. Crespo also had stints in other relevant bands on the scene, such as Aspen and Deluxe Trio, in addition to working at Spicy Recs, a fundamental record label for Brazilian independent rock. His work encompassed the production and release of works by bands like Againe, Garage Fuzz and Pin Ups.

One of the most striking moments of his career was his participation in Planet Hemp, an iconic band that fused rock with rap, funk and psychedelia. In the band, Crespo contributed the guitar riffs that defined the rock tone, alongside names like Marcelo D2 and BNegão. After leaving Planet Hemp, he sought a "personal and artistic rebirth" by founding the post-punk band Herzegovina, alongside Mario Mamede and Marcello Fernandes. With Herzegovina, he released an album in 2020, exploring darker and more introspective sonorities.

Rafael Crespo is recognized for his versatility and influence on the development of Brazilian independent rock. His musicality is marked by experimentation and the fusion of genres, transitioning between punk, post-punk, rock and rap. He is also known for his interest in visual and literary aesthetics, citing influences from films like "A Clockwork Orange" and "Stranger Than Paradise", as well as beat writers and artistic movements such as German expressionism.