Sambajazz Trio

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

2006

Genres

samba-jazz, jazz, mpb, bossa nova

Instruments

piano, bass, drums, trumpet

Biography

The Sambajazz Trio is a Brazilian instrumental group that emerged as a significant force in the contemporary samba-jazz scene. The trio is comprised of Kiko Continentino on piano, Luiz Alves on bass, and Clauton Sales on drums and trumpet. They gained recognition with the release of their album "Agora Sim!" in 2006, which featured reinterpretations of Brazilian classics and original compositions.

Their music is characterized by a sophisticated fusion of samba rhythms with jazz harmonies and improvisational elements, embodying the essence of samba-jazz, a genre that gained prominence in Brazil during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The trio's work pays homage to the tradition of piano trios that were once a staple in Brazil's major cities, while infusing it with a modern sensibility.

Sambajazz Trio's members have extensive experience collaborating with renowned Brazilian artists. Kiko Continentino, for instance, has performed with Milton Nascimento, Djavan, and Chico Buarque, among others. Luiz Alves is a well-established name in Brazilian jazz, having played with artists like João Donato and Antonio Carlos Jobim. Clauton Sales, also known as Neguinho, has a background with artists such as Geraldo Azevedo and Luiz Melodia. This collective experience enriches the trio's musical output, making them a notable ensemble in Brazilian instrumental music.