Os Diagonais

Os Diagonais represent the sweet spot where American R&B meets the rhythmic heart of Brazil. Their sound is defined by a breezy, sophisticated warmth that feels like a permanent summer afternoon. It is music that prioritizes the groove, but never at the expense of a beautiful, soaring melody. The interplay between the crisp percussion and the fluid guitar work creates a foundation that is both grounded and light as air.

What truly sets them apart is their vocal precision. Influenced by the great American vocal groups of the 60s but singing with a distinctly Brazilian lilt, their harmonies are stacked with mathematical accuracy yet delivered with soulful ease. You can hear the beginnings of the 'Black Rio' movement here, where funk and soul were being reinterpreted through a local lens, resulting in something more melodic and rhythmic than its US counterparts.

Start with 'Cada um na sua' from 1971. It is a masterclass in the samba-soul genre, showcasing the group at their most cohesive. It is the kind of record that makes any room feel five degrees warmer and significantly more stylish the moment the needle drops.