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.