Achieving an ever growing amount success and recognition in his native Brazil, Criolo brings his unique sound of adventurously infused hip-hop to the UK for the very first time. Born to migrants in the North East of Brazil in one of the cities many favelas, Klebeb Cavalcante Gomes’ music confronts the huge wealth divide that Brazil’s growing economy has formed, as well as other social issues. His penultimate album Nó na Orelha saw his popularity rise phenomenally; although he had achieved relative success in his homeland selling countless shows out at smaller venues, this project enabled him to be propelled onto the international stage. The follow up and latest project from the quirky São Paulo rapper titled Convoque Seu Buda sees a relentless approach to his conscious lyrics paired with samba and jazz fuses.
As well as Criolo’s eclectic mix of hip-hop inspired by his roots from his native land, he will also be joined by Brazilian DJs Fabio Bahia (Made In Brazil/Carnaval) and Pilo Adami (Nubiyan Twist). Perhaps the only shame would be that there are sparse translations of his hard hitting lyrics – but this won’t prevent me from grabbing a slice of Belgrave’s famous pizza and vibing to his energetic sound come the 23rd of April.
Tickets are available but moving quickly at: www.jumborecords.co.uk & www.crashrecords.co.uk
Niall Ballinger