Zuco 103, the brainchild of Lilian Vieira, Stefan Schmid, and Stefan Kruger, emerged onto the music scene in 1999 under the moniker Rec.a, and their collaborative efforts have only flourished since then. Their ingenious fusion of Brazilian music, funk, jazz, and electronics has garnered them a legion of admirers and accolades, and established them as pioneers of the Brazilectro genre. With a career spanning the globe, they have shared the stage with icons like Joe Jackson, Sergio Cavazzioli (Gilberto Gil), Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, and Marcos Suzano.
The trio first met in 1989 at the Rotterdam Conservatory, where Vieira honed her singing skills. Schmid, the mastermind behind the term “Brazilectro,” which became an international phenomenon, ushered in a scene of kindred artists and DJs. Their music seamlessly blends samba, bossa nova, dub, and drum’n’bass, creating a sound that is both natural and danceable.
With successful performances at various festivals and clubs across the world, including Rock Werchter, North Sea Jazz Festival, and Fuji Rock Japan, their pioneering career and deep discography place them among the veterans of the Brazilectro scene. The COVID-19 pandemic forced them to slow down their hectic touring schedule, providing them with a chance to focus on the basics.
In 2023, Zuco 103 released their ninth studio album, “Telenova.” Produced during the pandemic, the album features a smaller, more intimate feel, with stripped-back arrangements and personal lyrics. The album showcases the trio’s mastery of blending different musical styles, ranging from low-slung beats to Afro-Cuban rhythms. “Telenova” reflects Zuco 103’s love of adventure and natural chemistry on stage and in the studio, resulting in a timeless fusion of global funk and dance styles. Overall, the album is a testament to the band’s 20-year musical journey together.
Discography
Outro Lado (Ziriguiboom, 1999)
Tales Of High Fever Ziriguiboom, (2002)
One Down, One Up (Ziriguiboom, 2003)
Whaa! (Ziriguiboom, 2005)
After The Carnaval (Dox Records, 2008)
Retouched! After The Carnaval Remixes (Dox Records, 2009)
Apocalypso (2015), EP
Etno Chic (2016)
Tripicalismo (2019)
Telenova (Zuco Sound Records, 2023)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.