From the vibrant music scene of São Paulo, Brazil, emerges BIKE, a psychedelic rock band making waves internationally. Just like choosing the perfect Bike Outfit for a ride, BIKE has crafted a unique sonic style that blends post-Tropicalia psychedelia with global rock influences, captivating audiences worldwide. Fresh off a successful tour and a new album release, Arte Bruta, we delve into the world of BIKE to explore their journey and sound.
From Local Jams to International Stages: The Genesis of BIKE
BIKE’s story began as a project between guitarists and vocalists Julito and Diego. Soon, the need for a full band experience arose, leading to the addition of long-time friends Joao on bass and Dandas on drums. The band name itself, BIKE, is a nod to psychedelic culture, referencing the first LSD trip taken on a bicycle. This connection to psychedelic exploration is further cemented by their admiration for early Pink Floyd, particularly Syd Barrett’s song of the same name. Formed from the Sao Paulo music scene, BIKE united through a shared passion for psychedelic rock, creating a sound that’s both familiar and uniquely their own.
Musical Evolution and Influences: A Brazilian Psychedelic Blend
While Pink Floyd stands as a foundational influence for BIKE, the band’s sound is deeply rooted in Brazilian psychedelia. This unique blend is further enriched by diverse influences, ranging from the surreal cinema of Jodorowsky to the mystical literature of Carlos Castaneda, which shapes their lyrical content. Musically, BIKE draws inspiration from pioneers like Silver Apples and Can, while consistently revisiting favorites such as Sonic Youth and Brian Jonestown Massacre. Their Brazilian heritage shines through their appreciation for national artists like Pedro Santos, Milton Nascimento, and Lula Cortes, creating a rich tapestry of sounds.
The Brazilian Sonic Landscape: Nature and Musical Identity
Hailing from Sao Paulo, though distant from the Amazon, BIKE acknowledges the influence of Brazil’s rich natural environment on their music. Brazilian popular music from the 60s and 70s, while influenced by international trends, always incorporated a distinct Brazilian flavor. This unique “spice,” as BIKE describes it, sets Brazilian music apart. Drawing inspiration from bands like Os Mutantes, who blended Beatles influences with a uniquely Brazilian twist, BIKE continues this tradition of sonic innovation.
Art, Noise, and Performance: Pushing Boundaries Live
BIKE sees art in every form of expression, and their live performances are designed as immersive artistic experiences. They intentionally blur the lines between music and noise, often introducing sonic disruptions after songs to challenge the audience’s expectations. This element of surprise and discomfort is crucial to their live shows, ensuring each performance is a unique and unforgettable experience that transcends the typical concert format.
Conquering the US: SXSW, Treefort, and KEXP
BIKE’s recent US tour marked a significant step in their international journey. They played an impressive 13 shows at SXSW in Austin, performed at Treefort Fest in Boise, and recorded a live session at Seattle’s renowned KEXP radio station. This first foray into the US market was a resounding success, leaving the band eager to return and expand their reach across the country.
Building an International Presence: Teamwork and Global Appeal
Navigating the international music scene as a Brazilian band presents unique challenges. BIKE’s growing global presence is a testament to their music’s appeal and their strategic collaborations. Working with Brazilian labels Quadrado Mágico Records and Before Sunrise Records, alongside booking and management by Brain Productions, has been instrumental in their success. The collaboration with Shauna at Shameless Promotion PR has further amplified their reach, connecting them with audiences and media outlets worldwide. Ultimately, BIKE’s international breakthrough is driven by the simple fact that people are connecting with and enjoying their music.
Live vs. Studio: Two Sides of the BIKE Experience
For BIKE, studio recordings serve as initial interpretations of their songs. However, it’s on stage where these songs truly evolve. Live performances allow for improvisation, structural changes, and a dynamic interaction with the audience, leading to a constant maturation of their repertoire. This live evolution brings a freshness to their music, making each concert a unique and engaging experience that differs from their studio work, highlighting the dynamic nature of BIKE’s artistic expression.
Future Rides: Touring and New Horizons
Looking ahead, BIKE is set to continue their musical journey with extensive touring plans within Brazil and potential ventures into South American countries like Chile and Argentina. A return to the US, with a focus on more festivals, is also high on their list. With their album Arte Bruta now available, BIKE invites listeners worldwide to explore their unique sound and join them on their ongoing musical adventure, proving that their bike outfit – their band and their music – is ready for any road ahead.
Explore more of BIKE’s music on Bandcamp.
