-- By KCRW DJ Travis Holcombe
Tropicalbacanal, the latest offering from Brazilian trio Bonde do Role, is like a beast hopped up on a bottle of caffeine pills, electrified, then liquified in a psychedelic blender and served to another beast. Yeah, you're in for a manic experience with this one...
Co-produced by Diplo and Filip Nikolic (Poolside), and clocking in at just under 30 minutes, Tropicalbacanal is reinforced with some well-placed guest spots from Brazilian tropicalia legend Caetano Veloso, UK rappers Rizzle Kicks, dancehall artist Ce'Cile and Kool A.D. of Das Racist, among others. Bonde do Role's knack for hooks and melodies are so potent that the Portuguese language barrier here in some of the tracks won't stop you from singing along.
The baile funk inspired sound of Bonde do Role's debut album, With Lasers, is still present but the trio has expanded their sonic palette with further elements of traditional Brazilian music, surf rock, synth pop and punk rock. It is a truly a pan-global bacchanalia. Enjoy responsibly.
Tropicalbacanal will be available to stream from July 30 through August 6, 2012.