Os Clavelitos - Arriving (2016)

Os Clavelitos' debut album "Arriving" sets English lyrics over traditional Brazilian rhythms; weaving in diverse, often folkloric, stylistic strands. The NYC-based six piece ensemble, with members from Brazil, Japan, and the U.S., perform original compositions referencing a variety of Brazilian grooves: samba, baiao, frevo, bossa nova, occasionally extending outward into traditions like bolero and cha-cha. Over a forceful rhythmic core of drum and hand percussion, guitar and bass express an ever-shifting harmonic frame for lithe melodies, sensually delivered by vocalist Chieko Honda. Each piece has a clarity of storytelling, achieved through thoughtful lyrics and creative, focused arrangements; variously employing accordion, cavaquinho, flute, saxophone, and layered vocals to articulate a precise emotional arc for the listener. Sharing their stories of travel, memory, community, and loss (and Tom Cruise, really!), Os Clavelitos make a welcoming, big-hearted sound, inviting you to their samba parade, where we are all 'Arriving' joyfully home in our shared humanity.

Chieko Honda (vocals); Anthony Lanni (guitar, backing vocals); Dan Kendall (bass, cavaquinho, accordion, backing vocals); Livio Almeida (tenor & soprano sax, and flute); Uka Gameiro (drums, percussion); Arei Sekiguchi (percussion).