The Avalons

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1959–1962

Genres

rock, rock instrumental

Instruments

lead guitar, drums, double bass, vocals, banjo

Biography

The Avalons were an instrumental rock band formed in São Paulo in 1959, and are considered pioneers of the genre in Brazil. The group was conceived by brothers Francisco Eduardo de Souza Pereira (Dudu) and Paulo Hermínio de Souza Pereira, who teamed up with Daniel Grizantim. Initially, the trio performed at parties and television shows, catching the attention of producer Solano Ribeiro, who described them as "the best and most current rock outside of the matrix (USA)."

Dudu, on lead guitar, innovated with a picking technique developed on his banjo, which allowed him to solo in chords and play multiple notes simultaneously, creating the impression of more than one guitar. This skill was fundamental to the success of their early recordings, such as "China Rock" and "Valentina," released on the Young label. The group became a constant presence on "Programa da Juventude," hosted by Celly Campello. In the early 1960s, vocalist José Gagliardi Jr. (Galli Jr.) joined the ensemble.

Signed by RGE, The Avalons released a double EP in 1961 featuring the songs "The Eyes Of Texas Are Upon You," "Nº 13," "Because I Love You," and "Tell Me Darling." However, the group came to an end in 1962, when Dudu traveled to Europe. Despite their short career, The Avalons left an important legacy in the history of Brazilian rock, influencing future generations of musicians.