Uploaded September 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Djangada takes its name from the jangada – a traditional fishing boat from north-eastern Brazil, the birthplace of many Afro-Brazilian rhythms. Drawing inspiration from this rich musical heritage, the trio reimagines the classic songs of Bahian legends Dorival Caymmi and Gilberto Gil, transforming them into punchy, groove-driven instrumentals.
Blending the elegance of the 1960s Bossa Nova piano trio with a modern, funk-infused edge, Djangada’s sound is defined by tight arrangements, deep rhythmic interplay, and joyful improvisation.
Pianist Sam Watts and bassist Matheus Nova have spent years performing together as the rhythmic core of leading Brazilian acts across Europe. In 2020, they joined forces with drummer Marcinho Pereira to form Djangada, channelling their shared musical chemistry into this dynamic project.
The band pays tribute to Bahia’s musical and cultural landscape – from the sea-inspired songs of Caymmi to the African-rooted rhythms like Samba de Roda. Matheus, a Bahian native, brings a personal connection to this heritage, and the trio collaborates with Salvador-based artist NOVA to create striking visual artwork reflecting these themes.
Djangada bridges Afro-Brazilian tradition and contemporary jazz, combining structured arrangements with lively, improvisational energy – a unique sound that brings the spirit of Bahia into the present day.
Line up:
Sam Watts – Piano
Matheus Nova – Bass
Marcinho Pereira – Drums
Composition "Amor até o Fim" composed by Gilberto Gil
Video by Zhenya Strigalev
Played live at Ladbroke Hall, London
Djangada takes its name from the jangada – a traditional fishing boat from north-eastern Brazil, the birthplace of many Afro-Brazilian rhythms. Drawing inspiration from this rich musical heritage, the trio reimagines the classic songs of Bahian legends Dorival Caymmi and Gilberto Gil, transforming them into punchy, groove-driven instrumentals.
Blending the elegance of the 1960s Bossa Nova piano trio with a modern, funk-infused edge, Djangada’s sound is defined by tight arrangements, deep rhythmic interplay, and joyful improvisation.
Pianist Sam Watts and bassist Matheus Nova have spent years performing together as the rhythmic core of leading Brazilian acts across Europe. In 2020, they joined forces with drummer Marcinho Pereira to form Djangada, channelling their shared musical chemistry into this dynamic project.
The band pays tribute to Bahia’s musical and cultural landscape – from the sea-inspired songs of Caymmi to the African-rooted rhythms like Samba de Roda. Matheus, a Bahian native, brings a personal connection to this heritage, and the trio collaborates with Salvador-based artist NOVA to create striking visual artwork reflecting these themes.
Djangada bridges Afro-Brazilian tradition and contemporary jazz, combining structured arrangements with lively, improvisational energy – a unique sound that brings the spirit of Bahia into the present day.
Line up:
Sam Watts – Piano
Matheus Nova – Bass
Marcinho Pereira – Drums
Composition "Amor até o Fim" composed by Gilberto Gil
Video by Zhenya Strigalev
Played live at Ladbroke Hall, London
