From the desire to simply have fun making a local version of a Brazilian carnival street rhythm percussion ensemble back in 1997, this group has expanded to become a highly respected and appreciated combo in the community. Bandmates Chrissy Becker (vocals, percussion), Chas Blythe (guitar), John Blythe (cavaquinho, shorty 12-string guitar), Harris Hatcher (percussion), Lou Humphrey (percussion) and Buddy Rogers (saxophones, flute) plus Sam Crain (guitar, sitting in with the band this weekend) use authentic instruments associated with the genre while performing standard bossa nova classics, a jazz-influenced style called pagodé and other variants of the original “samba” music we equate with music originating from Brazil. Judging by the longevity of the band and the amount of upcoming gigs, including Edwards Place Fine Art Fair, (Sat., Sept. 21, 3-5 p.m.), Uptown Friday Night at Robbie’s (Friday, Oct. 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m.) and Pease’s at Bunn Gourmet (Thursday, Oct. 24, 6:30-8:30 p.m.) Brazillian-based, samba-style music is a welcome addition to the Springfield scene.
Samba Llamas
Saturday, Sept. 14, 4 p.m.
Rolling Meadows
Farm Brewery
Harvest Party
This article appears in Sep 12-18, 2019.
