Calhambeks

Calhambeques formed in Rio de Janeiro in the early 2000s, with Juliana de Almeida on vocals. Their sound mixed samba and funk with electronic touches, and they broke through with the single 'Garota!' in 2005. That track became an anthem, built around Juliana's raw delivery and the band's rhythmic energy.

Their self-titled debut album came out the same year, followed by 'Balacobaco' in 2008 and 'Tiro na Cabeça' in 2012. The lineup included Marcelo D2 on guitar, DJ Nuts on turntables, and Pedro Baby on percussion. Their lyrics often addressed social and political themes, which sometimes drew criticism from conservative listeners.

Juliana's vocals remained central to their music, which kept pulling from Brazilian traditions while incorporating elements of hip-hop and other contemporary styles. They didn't stick to one formula, and that restless quality defined their recordings through the 2000s and into the next decade.