Sambaranda is a Brazilian vocal group born from homesickness. In 2011, while studying in Ireland, musician Rafael Carneiro, driven by nostalgia for his homeland, began intensively listening to Brazilian music - from Djavan to Chico Buarque. It was during this period that the idea of creating a vocal group with jazz influences emerged.
In 2014, the project initially took shape as a trio. Over the years, the group went through different formations until establishing itself as a nationally and internationally acclaimed septet. Currently, Sambaranda consists of Rafael Carneiro (musical direction, arrangements, and production), Nani Valente, Diego de Jesus, Paulo Santos, Fredson Torres, and Ana Barreto.
The group's distinctive characteristic is performing reinterpretations of great Brazilian compositions with sophisticated arrangements, both harmonically and rhythmically. The arrangements, considered the backbone of the group, are all created by Rafael Carneiro and bring a unique perspective to each composition, giving new interpretations to the songs without attempting to improve them, but rather to express a new musicality through them.
In 2016, Sambaranda released their first album, "Delírios, vol.1," which received acclaim from critics and major names in Brazilian and international music. The album features reinterpretations of composers such as Tom Jobim, Antonio Adolfo, Djavan, Guinga, Ed Motta, Gilberto Gil, Dominguinhos, and Marisa Monte, along with the original track "Na Varanda," composed by Rafael Carneiro. With this work, the group made history by becoming the first Brazilian group to win in the Best Jazz Album category at the Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards (CARA) 2017.
In 2018, the group released their second album, "Um Natal Meio Christmas," a Christmas special that was recognized as "Runner-up" in the special awards at the 2018 Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards in the Best Holiday Album category.
Currently, Sambaranda is preparing to release their third album, "Dejavu," scheduled for May 2025, entirely dedicated to Djavan's work. The ambitious project features 23 songs by the composer from Alagoas and represents a new moment in the group's trajectory, seeking international reach and recognition in the vocal music market.
