Check out these new and used Azymuth vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Azymuth vinyl collection with the essential albums Carnival, Before We Forget and Woodland Warrior. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from world musicians.

Azymuth: The Pioneers of Brazilian Jazz-Funk

Origins and Formation

Azymuth, the iconic Brazilian jazz-funk band, was formed in 1973 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The trio comprises José Roberto Bertrami on keyboards, Ivan Conti on drums, and Alex Malheiros on bass. The name “Azymuth” is derived from the word “azimuth,” symbolizing their musical exploration and adventurous spirit. From the outset, Azymuth sought to blend traditional Brazilian rhythms with contemporary jazz and funk influences, creating a unique sonic identity that would set them apart in the global music scene. Here are the Azymuth Tracks and Albums.

The Vinyl Era: Crafting Timeless Grooves

Azymuth’s Early Discography

Azymuth’s early discography is a testament to their innovative approach to music. Their debut album, “Azymuth” (1975), introduced the world to their fusion of samba, jazz, and funk. The use of synthesizers and electronic effects, particularly by José Roberto Bertrami, marked a departure from traditional jazz norms, earning the band a reputation for pushing boundaries.

The follow-up album, “Águia Não Come Mosca” (1977), showcased Azymuth’s evolving sound. The incorporation of electric pianos and synthesizers became more pronounced, reflecting the band’s experimentation with new technologies. Tracks like “Castelo (Version 1)” and “Fly over the Horizon (Vôo Sobre o Horizonte)” exemplify their ability to seamlessly blend intricate jazz melodies with infectious funk grooves.

“Light as a Feather” (1979): A Milestone in Brazilian Jazz-Funk

The release of “Light as a Feather” in 1979 marked a significant milestone in Azymuth’s career. This album, often considered a masterpiece, solidified their status as pioneers of Brazilian jazz-funk. The incorporation of vocal elements, courtesy of Flora Purim, added a new dimension to their music. Tracks like “Jazz Carnival” and “Fly over the Horizon (Vôo Sobre o Horizonte)” exemplify the band’s ability to create infectious, danceable grooves while maintaining a sophisticated musicality.

Azymuth Vinyl Discography: A Journey Through Time

“Outubro” (1980): A Maturation of Sound

Following the success of “Light as a Feather,” Azymuth continued to refine their sound with the release of “Outubro” in 1980. This album showcased a maturation of their musical style, with tracks like “Dear Limmertz” displaying a more contemplative and introspective side of the band. The fusion of electronic and acoustic elements became more intricate, solidifying Azymuth’s reputation as virtuosic musicians and composers.

“Cascades” (1982): Exploring Ambient Landscapes

The early ’80s saw Azymuth exploring ambient and atmospheric landscapes with their album “Cascades.” While still rooted in jazz-funk, the band embraced synthesizers and electronic textures to create dreamlike soundscapes. Tracks like “Cascades” and “Amazonia” showcase Azymuth’s ability to evolve their sound while maintaining a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

“Tightrope Walker” (1982): A Fusion of Styles

Released in the same year as “Cascades,” “Tightrope Walker” further exemplified Azymuth’s versatility. The album seamlessly fused elements of jazz, funk, and disco, demonstrating the band’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes. Tracks like “Dear Limmertz” and “May I Have This Dance?” showcase the band’s ability to craft infectious, danceable tunes while maintaining their signature musical complexity.

Influence and Legacy

Azymuth’s impact on the world of jazz-funk extends beyond their impressive discography. Their ability to blend Brazilian rhythms with international influences has inspired countless musicians across genres. The use of synthesizers and electronic elements in their music also contributed to the evolution of electronic jazz and dance music.

Similar Bands: Exploring the Jazz-Funk Landscape

Several bands share stylistic similarities with Azymuth, making them essential listening for fans of the Brazilian jazz-funk pioneers.

Weather Report

Weather Report, founded by Joe Zawinul and Wayne Shorter, shares Azymuth’s adventurous approach to music. Known for their fusion of jazz, rock, and world music, Weather Report’s discography is a journey through diverse sonic landscapes.

Return to Forever

Led by keyboardist Chick Corea, Return to Forever is another prominent fusion band with parallels to Azymuth. Their intricate compositions and virtuosic performances make them a must-listen for those exploring the intersection of jazz and funk.

Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters

Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, particularly their groundbreaking album “Head Hunters” (1973), is a cornerstone of jazz-funk. The album’s fusion of funk, jazz, and electronic elements resonates with Azymuth’s pioneering spirit.

Azymuth’s Legacy: Shaping the Future of Jazz-Funk

Azymuth’s influence can be heard in the music of contemporary artists who continue to push the boundaries of jazz-funk and electronic jazz. Bands and musicians inspired by Azymuth often integrate Brazilian rhythms, synthesizers, and a sense of adventurous exploration into their work.

Thundercat

Thundercat, the Grammy-winning bassist and vocalist, incorporates elements of jazz, funk, and R&B into his music. His affinity for intricate grooves and genre-blurring compositions aligns with Azymuth’s legacy.

BADBADNOTGOOD

The Canadian instrumental group BADBADNOTGOOD draws inspiration from jazz-funk and electronic jazz, creating a modern sound that reflects the innovation championed by Azymuth.

Snarky Puppy

Snarky Puppy’s fusion of jazz, funk, and world music resonates with Azymuth’s boundary-pushing ethos. The band’s collective approach to composition and improvisation echoes the collaborative spirit of the Brazilian pioneers.

Conclusion

Azymuth’s journey through the vinyl era encapsulates the evolution of Brazilian jazz-funk. From their early experimentation with synthesizers to the fusion of diverse musical elements in later albums, Azymuth consistently pushed the boundaries of what jazz-funk could be. Their legacy is not confined to their extensive discography; it reverberates through the work of contemporary artists who continue to explore and expand the possibilities of jazz-funk in the digital age. As we delve into the timeless grooves of Azymuth’s vinyl records, we embark on a musical odyssey that transcends eras and geographical boundaries.