ASA DE LUZ

Asa De Luz biography
Formed in 1987 in Nova Friburgo, Brazil

Brazilian band ASA DE LUZ hadn't originally intended to be a progressive outfit, although their QUEEN, YES and MARILLION influences inevitably drew prog audiences to their gigs. The material that makes up their two albums is somewhat more original. It is a mix of higher-end neo and symphonic prog with nice, mellow Brazilian textures (at times almost sounding like traditional Italian prog). Unfortunately, after the release of their second album, individual projects as well as differences among band members put an end to ASA DE LUZ.

Many seasoned musicians from the Brazilian prog scene took part in the making of their first (self-titled) album in 1996: drummer Lincoln Cheib (from Milton Nascimento's band), bassist and producer Ivan Corrêa (from Lô Borges' and Marco Antônio Araújo's bands), violinist Marcus Viana and guitarist Augusto Rennó (both from SAGRADO), singer Carla Villar (from TINDADE) and drummer Neném (from Beto Guedes' band). This self-produced cd is made up of melodious pieces featuring interesting keyboard, guitar and violin solos. It made such an impression that Progressive Rock Worldwide Label immediately signed the band up for an 8-year contract and then produced their second album in 1999, entitled "The Link". This one is a concept album, a real symphonic prog piece (as opposed to "neo"). Once again, it is filled with wonderful solos, colourful textures and harmonious melodies, where the ever-present electric violin adds an exotic touch to their sound. Both albums feature instrumental and vocal pieces, alternately sung in English and Portuguese. Some may find the English vocals a bit too accented for their tastes, but the production is fairly good and the musicianship flawless.

If you like symphonic prog but are tired of the same old formulas, check out ASA DE LUZ for a little exotic adventure. If you're already a fan of Brazilian band SAGRADO, no doubt you'll enjoy them too.

: : : Lise (HIBOU), CANADA : : :