Gilberto Gil - Z: 300 Anos de Zumbi

Zumbi was an important figure who founded "Palmares Quilombo" where escaped, runaway, and freed Africans created social organizations similar to what they had in Africa. Palmares was a socially diverse community that also included whites who were wanted by the Portuguese Crown. The Palmares Quilombo lasted for almost a century before being overtaken by the Portuguese.

"Z" brings us a unique collaboration between Gilberto Gil, Carlinhos Brown and Rodolfo Stroeter. Three of the most unique musical minds in Brasil. As they say "Z" is the conscience of our identity. "Z" is a mixture of languages and diverse musical forms. This music reflects the diversification of the infinite possibilities of the sounds of Brasil. Reaffirming the profound identity of Brasil with Africa and yet following the amplification of our diverse textures, and new paths which are to be the walkways of the future. The tribal universe of "Z" 's music and dance uses our respected artists in both primitive and contemporary genres. Above all this music makes people think and feel that the integration of diverse arts is possible, wholesome and above all necessary.

Rudolph Stroeter's words about "Z".

Z was conceived as a ballet . It was a request from Ballet da Cidade de São Paulo in order to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Zumbi, the slave hero. The Ballet da Cidade de São Paulo hired the Senegalese choreographer, Germaine Acogny and they asked the creation of the music from Gil. Rodolfo Stroter did the musical direction and the musical production. After a few meetings with Germaine : a impressive and tall Senegalese, full of energy and sensuality. She smoked a pipe most of the time during the meeting. We went to Rio to a single meeting with Gil. After this meeting, myself and Gil immediately started working on the music and the general idea started .We called Carlinhos Brown and he said that he would do it. The studio sessions were intense as we only had 3 days for creating the music. Gil came out with a cassette tape with some themes and we started to develop them as the choreography required.

Musically, "Z" blends the primitive traditions of afro brazilian music with some very contemporary sounds and ideas. Gil is featured as the "primitive leader". Gilberto Gil's improvised singing during all the tunes were impressive and full of energy. Z is about miscegenous cultures.

Personnel

Gilberto Gil -Guitar and Voice
Rodolfo Stroeter-Acoustic and Electric Bases
Carlinhos Brown - Percussion and Voice
Lelo Nazario -Keyboards
Gustavo di Dalva -Percussion
Lucas Santana -Flute
Marlui Miranda - Voices
Producer Rodolfo Stroeter