Som Imaginário

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1970

Genres

MPB, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, jazz fusion, instrumental music

Instruments

piano, organ, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, saxophone, flute

Biography

O Som Imaginário is one of the most emblematic groups in Brazilian instrumental music and progressive rock, formed in Rio de Janeiro in the early 1970s. Originally conceived to serve as the backing band for singer Milton Nascimento in the show "Milton Nascimento, ah, e o Som Imaginário," the ensemble soon developed its own avant-garde identity, becoming a fundamental piece in the sound that would define the Clube da Esquina movement. The original lineup brought together exceptional talents such as Wagner Tiso, Zé Rodrix, and Tavito, moving fluidly between MPB, psychedelia, and jazz fusion.

Throughout their initial trajectory, which lasted until the mid-1970s, the group released seminal albums that explored everything from experimental songs to complex instrumental suites. The record "Matança do Porco" (1973) is frequently cited as a masterpiece of national progressive rock, highlighting the virtuosity of musicians such as guitarist Fredera and drummer Robertinho Silva. In addition to their own original output, the band collaborated intensely with major names in Brazilian music, including Gal Costa, Marcos Valle, and Naná Vasconcelos, leaving an indelible mark on the phonographic production of the era.

After a hiatus of nearly forty years, O Som Imaginário resumed activities in 2012 under the leadership of Wagner Tiso and Luiz Alves. The return to the stage brought new collaborations, such as the addition of guitarist Victor Biglione, and the rescue of historical material, such as the release of the archival album "Banda da Capital" in 2023. The group's longevity and influence solidify its legacy as one of the most inventive and technically refined formations in the history of Brazilian music.

Discography

• Som Imaginário (1970)
• Som Imaginário (1971)
• Matança do Porco (1973)
• Milton Nascimento & Som Imaginário – Milagre dos Peixes (Gravado Ao Vivo) (1974)
• Som Imaginario (2006)
• Banda da Capital (2023)