Xingu Arantes

Xingu Arantes formed in São Paulo in 1979 around songwriter and frontman Paulo André Xingu, with guitarist Ricardo Arantes, bassist Fernando Passos, and drummer Paulo Marchetti. Their debut album 'Cachaça Mecânica' came out in 1982, followed by records like 'Aiuê' in 1985 and 'U-hu' in 1987. The band developed a cult following for a sound that mixed post-punk and progressive rock with Brazilian elements, and for lyrics that often carried a sharp, ironic edge.

Songs like 'Eu Comi a Madona' and 'Alô Alô Marciano' typified their provocative style. That first one, whose title translates to 'I Ate the Madonna,' caused enough of a stir with religious groups in 1983 that it led to some canceled shows. The band's material, including tracks like 'Contradições Por Minuto' and 'Amor, Sexo e Entorpecentes,' kept that tone of social commentary, which sometimes brought them criticism and censorship pressures.

While the lineup shifted at times, the core of Paulo André Xingu, Ricardo Arantes, and Fernando Passos stayed through most of it. Their live performances were known for being theatrical and unpredictable. They kept recording and playing shows, maintaining a dedicated audience drawn to that particular blend of musical experimentation and pointed lyrics.