14 Bis

"14 Bis" is a Brazilian progressive rock band formed in the early 1970s. Here are some key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Origin: 14 Bis was formed in 1979 in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The band's original lineup consisted of Flávio Venturini (vocals, keyboards, and guitar), Cláudio Venturini (guitar), Vermelho (bass), Hely Rodrigues (drums), and Sérgio Magrão (bass). Named after the French biplane "14-bis" designed by aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, the band sought to soar to new musical heights with their progressive rock sound.

2. Musical Style and Influence: 14 Bis is known for their eclectic blend of progressive rock, folk, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). Drawing inspiration from both Brazilian and international musical influences, the band crafted a unique sound characterized by intricate melodies, lush harmonies, and introspective lyrics. Their music often explores themes of love, nature, and spirituality, reflecting the band members' deep connection to their Brazilian roots.

3. Commercial Success and Albums: 14 Bis gained widespread acclaim with their self-titled debut album, released in 1979. The album featured hits like "Planeta Sonho" and "Todo Azul do Mar", which became iconic songs in the Brazilian music landscape. Subsequent albums, including "Espelho das Águas" (1981), "A Idade da Luz" (1983), and "Sete" (1987), further solidified the band's reputation as one of Brazil's foremost progressive rock acts.

4. Collaborations and Side Projects: Throughout their career, members of 14 Bis have collaborated with various artists and pursued solo projects alongside their work with the band. Flávio Venturini, in particular, has enjoyed success as a solo artist and has collaborated with renowned Brazilian musicians such as Milton Nascimento and Beto Guedes. These side projects have allowed the band members to explore different musical avenues while contributing to the rich tapestry of Brazilian music.

5. Legacy and Continued Relevance: 14 Bis remains a beloved and influential band in the Brazilian music scene, with their songs continuing to resonate with audiences across generations. Their innovative approach to blending progressive rock with Brazilian musical elements has inspired countless artists and paved the way for the development of new musical styles in Brazil. With a legacy spanning several decades, 14 Bis remains an essential part of Brazil's cultural and musical heritage.