A musical favourite: Leo Leobons, an out-of-the-ordinary percussionist between Cuba and Brazil !

Leo Leobons, an unknown Brazilian? Not at all! If you have had the chance to listen to Argentinean Ramiro Musotto before his passing in 2009 —his record and concerts are unforgettable—, you should have detected the particular sound of Leo’s deep voice and the abrupt beating of his drum. Leo Leobons is a Carioca (native of Rio de Janeiro) master of Bata, the sacred drum originally from the Youruba culture in African colonies. He is a master who draws Rio celebrities of the music business, such as Pedro Luis, Lucas Santana, etc. He stands as a reference for Carioca musicians.

 How favourite is Leo’s record on Micmag?

 Listening to his record in a not so well-known language is no easy task. Youruba tribal music remade by a Brazilian under a Cuban spell? For one, his register is not classical; the term “world music” cannot be tagged to this genre either. But, there are still good reasons for it! To all those listening without lending an attentive ear, why not accept this blunt spiral percussion striking louder and stronger? Tribal as it may sound, it has found it way into modern Black art!

 A razor-sharp sound likened to the image of African masks inspiring Cubists!

 Pigeonholing Leo Leobons to the tribal style remains a short-sighted vision, hence quickly forgetting the funk cry of his guitar in his “Baba” hit, the sharpness of the bass, the firepower of the percussion, the melody of the groove and its electro variation. Everything put together is an acoustic introduction perfectly played in a background ceremonial gathering… He who laughs last laughs best! The volume on your headphones needs to be turned all the way up because the magic Youruba mix is a cosmic voyage— second to none.

Unfortunately, the “Bà” CD is currently unavailable in Europe; it’s only available through the Internet. Hélico is working on putting the CD out on the French market. Enjoy yourself playing “Bà” and “Patua” in a loop for free by clicking on the link below.

Hélios Molina