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Continuing to spotlight old-time music’s international presence, we travel to a Salvador, Brazil. Banjo player Gigito describes his music as ‘unattached bluegrass’ and takes inspiration from everyone from Earl Scruggs to Thelonious Monk. His newest project, the album ‘Old Time Music vol. 1,’ has him focusing on clawhammer and tackling nine Appalachian classics by himself in his bedroom studio. His take on ‘Greasy Coat’ combines his more-than-capable frailing with a punkish enthusiasm and a perfectly layered chorus that’s the icing on the cake.

Q & A

What is your goal in recording and sharing music?

Composing and recording music was the most effective way I have found to canalize my ‘creative energy.’ I think recording is a great way to have a permanent record of a musician’s point of view. It is certainly a unique point of view and sharing that with others is essential to evolve, know and learn.

Come up with a descriptive, original genre name for your music.

Well, I like to describe as “Unattached Bluegrass” because I usually seek other references and influences to compose my own music. I listen to lots of cool stuff, from different musical universes, and I think that everything can be utilized.

Who do you view as a likely audience for your music?

People who like to have fun in a healthy way, with good sense of humor. But everyone who identifies with my music is welcome, of course!

If trapped on a desert island with only 3 songs, which would they be?

1. Any live music version of Bad Livers – Danny Barnes and Mark Rubin are a duo with amazing tune. On cds they are great, but playing live … they are sensational.
2. Farewell to Whalley Range – amazing irish music by Michael McGoldrick.
3. Shostakovich, String Quartet no. 8 in C minor – Incredible music, as only Shostakovich can do.

Who is your musical hero(es), if any?

There are many, but I would like to highlight my biggest influence on banjo: Danny Barnes. His style impresses me when mixing techniques to new sonorities and extremely creative music in his solo career or Bad Livers.

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