Fermento

Fermento came together in São Paulo, Brazil, with a sound that mixed Brazilian rhythms like samba and funk with rock. Their frontman, Doutor Zero, had a background in biochemistry, and that interest in science often showed up in their lyrics and song titles. The band's lineup included Professor Mestre on bass, Oxum on percussion, and Alga on drums.

One of their best-known tracks is "Ca₃(PO₄)₂," which takes its name from the chemical formula for calcium phosphate. Other songs like "Falling For Wotan" and "Gardens of Maturity" followed a similar pattern of weaving scientific or conceptual themes into accessible, groove-driven music. Their approach wasn't always embraced by critics, some of whom found the blend of education and entertainment a bit forced.

They kept at it through the 2000s, building a catalog that includes "Gutted My Soul" and "Hunger Among Wolves." The music held onto its rhythmic core even when the subject matter got abstract, staying grounded in the energy of São Paulo's local scenes.