Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Maria Bethania and Gal Costa
These are names from the past. Four musicians that we used to listen to a lot when we lived here 30 years ago. They are all from Bahia. Maria Bethania and Caetano Veloso are brother and sister. 30 years ago all four were a force to be reckoned with (either on their own or together) as the words in their music were strongly critical of the political and social situation. In the 70s, Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil - the composers - had to leave the country and live in exile in London for a few years. 30 years ago Brazil could be a dangerous place to live in. You had to watch what you said, where and to whom and it was not uncommon for people to disappear.

I was reminded of these 4 musicians, as they were interviewed together on TV the other night. A fascinating programme showing them working together again after all these years. Gilberto Gil appeared to be joined at the hip to his guitar - a fabulous musician and it was wonderful to listen to how easily they all harmonised with each other - such complex harmonies too - and great rhythm.

Good samba is hard to beat!