Flaviano Viola

Flaviano Viola is a Brazilian band named after the Italian violin virtuoso. Their song 'Espora da Saudade' came out in 2005 and became their most recognizable work, with a melody that feels like a seafaring ballad. The group includes Flaviano Viola himself on vocals and guitar, Dougalia Santisteban on harmonies, Pedro Salles on bass, and Marcio Bahia on percussion.

Early on, some critics questioned their approach of mixing traditional Brazilian rhythms with rock and electronic touches. They kept at it anyway, eventually building a loyal audience. They've put out other albums like 'Balaio do Coração' in 2010 and 'O Samba Não Morreu' in 2017.

They've worked with artists like Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, and Marisa Monte. Their music tends to circle around themes of memory and longing, which in Portuguese gets called saudade. It's that feeling, more than any grand statement, that seems to connect with people who listen to them.