Sonoridades Ancestrais

In this album of 100% original arrangements, composer and percussionist Bira Santos used an Idiopan, a handpan style instrument inspired by the steel drums of Trinidad and Tobago, to add harmony and melody to traditional Afro-Brazilian rhythms.

There is a strong Candomblé element to this album, with many songs coming directly from the Candomblé Ketu tradition, where Bira is initiated and an alabé. This album is an homage to the Orixás.

Bira composed, recorded, and mixed this album from home during the pandemic.

Song list

1. Canto para Exu (2:54)
2. Zambi é (3:21)
3. Orixalá (4:08)
4. Arcoiris Sonoro (3:22)
5. Oxum (2:33)
6. Tinitini (3:54)
7. Ama Siarama (1:43)
8. Obatalá (2:47)
9. Nordeste (1:48)
10. Oxalá (3:09)
11. Oxossi é Meu Guia (2:55)
12. Saudação a Oxum (2:26)
13. Bahia tem Africa (3:30)
14. Iemanjá (3:10)
15. Movimentos (2:50)

Total play time: 44:30

This 7-song album contains a combination of original compositions by Bira Santos as well as public domain music and remixes from other composers. All arrangements were done by Bira and Marie.

Musicians

• Bira Santos: Idiopan, Atabaques, Indian Drum, Talking Drum, Agogô, Ofaia, Gourds, Cajon, Xequere, Caxixi, Effects
• Guest Vocalist: Jen Cogburn
• Jen Santos: Loop Effects

Credits

• Concept: Bira Santos
• Direction and Adaptation: Bira Santos
• Recording and Mixing: Bira Santos
• Cover photo: Jen Santos
• Recording Location: Studio Por do Sol
• Overall Producer: Bira Santos
• Production Assistant: Jen Santos