Let us rejoice : the unique samba-soul-rock sound of legendary '70s band Trio Mocotó is back with 'Samba Rock', their first release since 1977. Based in São Paulo, the three original members Fritz, Nereu and João Parahyba return to rock the boat, bringing their energy and good vibes into our souls (and dancefloors) once again.

Referred to by many as the "Fathers of the samba soul beat", the band was formed in the late '60s. Trio Mocotó was brought to fame in 1969, when they were invited by Jorge Ben to be his backing band for the entire "Jorge Ben 1969" and "Força Bruta" albums. The former turned out to be Jorge's breakthrough album (it included the original version of his big hit "País Tropical").

After several hit singles (including "Coqueiro Verde") under their own name, the Trio went on to record three albums, which have now become collectors' items sought out by DJs the world over.

Everything was permitted on Planet Mocotó. The norm was happiness, freedom and an overwhelming sense of musical adventure, without barriers or preconceived ideas. The repertoire, several of their own originals aside, included songs by the finest writers, from Roberto and Erasmo Carlos to Toquinho and Vinícius, Ary Barroso to Burt Bacharach, Jorge Ben to Tim Maia. All very bouncy, groovy and full of the unique Mocotó flavor.

After an absence of over 20 years, Trio Mocotó is now back full strength: sometime in the beginning of 2000, the original three members decided to reform the band and to record a new album. João Parahyba had already been working with Ziriguiboom (he was a close musical partner of producer Suba, and has played percussion on Suba's acclaimed "São Paulo Confessions" album as well as on Bebel Gilberto's "Tanto Tempo"), so the association with Crammed's Brazilian imprint was only natural. Another partner was brought in: up-and-coming independent Brazilian label YBrasil?music, who handled the production of the album in their São Paulo studios.

So... thirty years have passed between the release of Trio Mocotó's debut album and this latest opus, but it proved to be worth the wait. Mocotó's super-original grooves and vocals, their innovative power and tremendous humor and charm are not only intact, they are rejuvenated by Fritz, Nereu and João Parahyba's fresh new take on the style they contributed to create in the Seventies (and which is becoming popular again today: there's a real samba soul/samba rock craze on the rise, in Brazil, Europe and North America). The album features a host of guest musicians (keyboards, guitars, percussion, horn section), plus a sprinkling of subtle electronic touches. Above all it's the sheer happiness, excitement and enthusiasm radiating from "Samba Rock" which will definitely make the whole world listen, smile, jump and dance.