When the concept of carnaval was brought to Rio de Janeiro by the Portuguese in the mid-19th century, groups of lively festival-goers would parade through the city playing music, wearing masks and dancing in the streets. What is it about the nature of Brazilian music — the samba and bossa nova — that conjures images of festivals, vacations and yes, partying in the streets?
“I think it’s a combination of the rhythms that makes you want to dance, and the melodies of Brazilian samba music that are uplifting, heady and lighthearted,” noted drummer Alejandro Lucini, who constitutes one-third of the group, Origem. His two brothers, Leonardo on electric guitar and double bass and Bruno, percussionist and hand drummer, complete this Brazilian jazz trio, the name of which is Portuguese for origin.
The brothers, all from Rio De Janeiro and all musically trained there by master artists, have been performing in the Washington metropolitan area for more than 15 years. Theirs is an addiction to Latin jazz; one that compels them to share their culture with audiences through their music. That drive has led to nominations for both Alejandro and Leonardo as “Best Latin Musicians” by the Washington Area Music Association.
For their Bohemian Caverns show, the trio has added special guest, pianist Alex Brown and Peter Fraize, a saxophonist who also teaches in the District. Their songs, all original compositions, will be from their second recorded album, the soon to be released CD titled “CD Baby.”
“The show will be a preview of our album which will be available the first week in June,” Alejandro explained. “The day after the show, Monday, will be our last day in the studio.”
Brazilian jazz is the best description of the music Origem performs, according to Alejandro, who along with Leonardo, attended graduate school for jazz at Howard University. And their formula is a simple one.
“We are mixing our Brazilian musical style with the rhythms of jazz,” Alejandro said. There has always been chemistry between [the two] and I think it is catching on.”
