João Selva – Onda (Underdog Records, 2025)
Brazilian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist João Selva continues his exploration of Afro-diasporic rhythms with Onda, his fourth solo album. The album weaves samba, funk, disco, and Caribbean influences into a cohesive sound that celebrates joy and cultural fusion.
Trained in artistic direction and Afro-American music arrangement in New York, Selva deepened his connection to Brazilian traditional music during a 2024 pre-Carnaval trip along the coast, meeting with masters of popular traditions. This experience shaped Onda, a vigorous and rhythm-driven album produced by longtime collaborator Bruno “Patchworks” Hovart. The duo first teamed up in 2016 and have developed a distinctive style marked by polished arrangements and groove-heavy instrumentation.
The album includes contributions from French pop artist Cléa Vincent and jazz singer Gabi Hartmann, featured on the tracks “Viens Danser” and “Rainbow Love,” respectively. Onda reflects a carefree, hedonistic spirit, while also nodding to Selva’s influences, most notably the great Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil.
Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Selva is the son of a pastor and began studying guitar under bossa nova icon Wanda Sá. He later became an itinerant performer, presenting cultural shows across West Africa, Cape Verde, and the Caribbean. Since launching his solo career in Lyon, France, he has released three critically acclaimed albums and performed over 150 concerts across Europe, including appearances at WOMEX, Paléo Festival, and Les Nuits de Fourvière.
In addition to his recording work, Selva is active in cultural outreach. As an associate artist at Jazz à Vienne, his youth-oriented projects have received strong reception. Earlier releases include Navegar (2021) and Passarinho (2023).
Musicians: João Selva on lead vocals, guitar, percussion; Bruno Patchworks on guitar, bass, keyboards, accordion; Cléa Vincent on lead vocals (Track 3); and Gabi Hartmann on lead vocals (Track 10).
All tracks written and composed by Jonathan Da Silva & Bruno Hovart.
Produced by Patchworks.
Recorded at Ginger X Studio.
Mastered at Altho Studio.
Artwork: Edson Ikê.
Photo: Marcio Grafiti.
Executive Producer: Maxime Peron.
Published by Underdog Records.
Track list:
Onda – 4:06
Fantástica Bahia – 4:07
Viens Danser (feat. Cléa Vincent) – 3:57
Banho De Mar – 3:39
Navegante – 2:50
Quero Você – 4:17
Tambor Chamou – 4:12
Amor Em Copacabana – 4:08
Maré Vai Subir – 4:01
Rainbow Love (feat. Gabi Hartmann) – 3:49
Buy Onda.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
