Sagrado Coração da Terra

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Years active

1979–present

Genres

progressive rock, instrumental music, mpb

Instruments

violin, keyboards, piano, guitar, flute, drums, percussion, bass, vocals

Biography

Sagrado Coração da Terra is a prominent Brazilian progressive rock band known for their unique blend of instrumental music, traditional violin arrangements, and spiritualist lyrics that celebrate nature and peace. Founded in 1979 in the state of Minas Gerais by composer and multi-instrumentalist Marcus Viana following the end of Saecula Saeculorum, the group carved out a distinct niche within the Brazilian music scene. Their pioneering sound quickly gained international acclaim, particularly in Japan, before achieving mainstream success in Brazil in the late 1980s when their track "Flecha" was featured on a Rede Globo telenovela soundtrack.

Throughout the decades, the band collaborated with numerous notable artists and expanded their sonic palette across several releases. Their third album, Farol da Liberdade, incorporated themes from successful television soundtracks, further cementing their status in Brazilian culture alongside contemporaries influenced by progressive and orchestral rock. After a significant hiatus in the 1990s, the group returned with the 2000 album À Leste do Sol, Oeste da Lua, which featured guest appearances from renowned musicians such as André Matos, formerly of Angra, and reinterpretations of works by iconic figures like Caetano Veloso.

Today, Sagrado Coração da Terra remains a vital reference in Brazilian progressive rock and instrumental music, maintaining a legacy built on intricate compositions and evocative thematic concepts. Led steadfastly by Marcus Viana, the ensemble's collective history encompasses celebrated albums, striking DVDs, and enduring contributions to both national and international music spheres.