Brazilian producer and composer Tagua Tagua is set to release his latest album, a 9-track collection, once again in collaboration with Brooklyn’s Wonderwheel Recordings. Written, produced, and recorded entirely in his downtown São Paulo apartment, RAIO marks a new chapter in Tagua Tagua’s creative journey. While maintaining the neo-soul, tropicalia and psychedelic influences that defined his earlier work, the album introduces a fresh dance energy. Drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Tim Maia, Cassiano, and Bill Withers, Tagua skillfully incorporates contemporary elements reminiscent of Daft Punk and French indie band L’Imperatrice.
RAIO unfolds like a continuous dance, moving freely through time, whether at the start of the night or in the early hours of morning. The opening track, "Dia de Sol" (Sunny Day), sets the mood with a subtle warmth, serving as a bridge between his previous album, Tanto, and this new work. One of the album’s standout singles, "Let it Go," follows with a groove that invites listeners to move, blending dreamy melodies with rhythmic beats for an otherworldly yet grounded experience.
The album’s energy carries through tracks like "Artificial" and "Química," which feature disco-infused rhythms and a seamless interplay of Portuguese and English lyrics. A key moment comes with the fourth track, "Lado a Lado" (Side by Side), a collaboration with American band White Denim. The song, an ode to life’s most uplifting feelings, evokes the serenity of a cool breeze in a chaotic world. White Denim’s contributions—guitars, flutes, and percussion—add new dimensions to the arrangement, making the track a cornerstone of the record.
Felipe Puperi, the creative force behind Tagua Tagua, resides in São Paulo. Before launching his solo project, he fronted the Brazilian indie band Wannabe Jalva, which earned acclaim opening for artists such as Jack White and Pearl Jam and performing at major festivals like Lollapalooza Brazil. In 2017, his interest in exploring the roots of the Portuguese language and Brazilian musical heritage led to the creation of Tagua Tagua. Since then, he has released two full-length albums, along with several singles and EPs. Felipe is preparing to bring RAIO to the stage with performances at the SXSW festival and Lollapalooza Brazil this March, sharing his latest work with audiences both near and far.
- 1. Let It Go
- 2. Lado a Lado ft. White Denim
