Neither the seven-string guitarist nor his musical partner Hamilton de Holanda (ten-string mandolin) play conventional instruments, but they’re complete masters of what they do. Their take on Brazilian music is inspired by some of the country’s greatest artists, a modern version of the samba tradition expressed with breathtaking virtuosity. They’re a natural pairing, working symbiotically together, switching perfectly naturally from lead to supporting roles to the point where it can be hard to tell which instrument is which.

Although they can impress with their speed, they give great depth of emotion to slower pieces, and de Holanda‘s mastery of the mandolin is evident. Where they stretch out, they have the chance to show their stuff with lengthy improvisations, trading phrases, pushing each other further and further with real joy. It’s a concert not only lovers of Brazilian music, but also those who revel in true Brazilian instrumental genius.