Tche Sarandeio

Tchê Sarandeio formed in 1987 in Rio Grande do Sul, with brothers Elton Saldanha on vocals and guitar and Régis Saldanha on bass, plus drummer Marcelo Loureiro. Their music draws from traditional gaucho styles like xote, vanerão, and fandango, which they mix with more contemporary sounds. Their debut album came out in 1991, featuring the track 'Menina Fandangueira' that became widely known.

That song, along with others like 'Bamo cavalo' and 'Eu Só Quero Vaneira,' helped build their audience in Brazil. They kept recording through the 1990s and early 2000s, putting out live albums and studio work. Some listeners debated whether they were updating traditions or watering them down, but their music found a place on regional radio and at festivals.

They've released albums periodically since, including one in 2018 called 'O Retorno.' The Saldanha brothers have also spent time working with younger musicians. While not as constantly visible as in their peak years, their songs still turn up at gatherings and on playlists focused on southern Brazilian music.