Ivan Conti, affectionately known as Mamao, was a celebrated figure in the world of drumming, widely regarded as one of the planet's greatest percussionists. With an innovative approach to rhythm, his musical journey commenced as a session drummer with Odeon Records, where he collaborated with esteemed artists such as Gal Costa, Roberto Carlos, and Jorge Ben.
A pivotal chapter in Ivan's musical legacy was his role as one of the founding members of Azymuth, a Brazilian jazz-funk ensemble that emerged in 1973. The original trio consisted of José Roberto Bertrami, Alex Malheiros, and Ivan Conti, and their international acclaim blossomed during the 1970s when they signed with Milestone Records in 1979, leading to a series of remarkable albums.
Ivan Conti's artistic journey wasn't confined to Azymuth alone. He explored solo endeavors and engaged in electronic dance music collaborations, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. His distinctive drumming style seamlessly fused elements of jazz-funk with Brazilian rhythms, contributing significantly to Azymuth's unique sound.
Ivan's illustrious career spanned over half a century, marked by numerous recordings and collaborations with distinguished artists such as Milton Nascimento, Eumir Deodato, Marcos Valle, Hyldon, Gal Costa, and Jorge Ben. In more recent times, Mamao embarked on a remarkable album with the hip-hop giant Madlib under the alias 'Jackson Conti.'
The passing of Ivan Conti, the iconic drummer and co-founder of Azymuth, at the age of 76, leaves a void in the world of music that will be deeply felt. His rhythmic mastery, innovative spirit, and boundless contributions to the realm of jazz-funk resonate in the hearts of music enthusiasts around the globe
Members of Azymuth, a Brazilian jazz-funk ensemble that emerged in 1973. The original trio consisted of José Roberto Bertrami, Alex Malheiros, and Ivan Conti, and their international acclaim blossomed during the 1970s when they signed with Milestone Records in 1979, leading to a series of remarkable albums.
My personal encounter with Ivan dates back to approximately two decades ago in Manchester, where I attended an Azymuth concert. At the time, Azymuth's music wasn't particularly on my radar, but a friend's recommendation led me to the show. As the performance began, I was instantly captivated, and from that moment on, I became an ardent fan.
Ivan Conti's artistic journey wasn't confined to Azymuth alone. He explored solo endeavours and engaged in electronic dance music collaborations, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. His distinctive drumming style seamlessly fused elements of jazz-funk with Brazilian rhythms, contributing significantly to Azymuth's unique sound.
Ivan's illustrious career spanned over half a century, marked by numerous recordings and collaborations with distinguished artists such as Milton Nascimento, Eumir Deodato, Marcos Valle, Hyldon, Gal Costa, and Jorge Ben. In more recent times, Mamao embarked on a remarkable album with the hip-hop giant Madlib under the alias 'Jackson Conti.'The passing of Ivan Conti, the iconic drummer and co-founder of Azymuth, at the age of 76, leaves a void in the world of music that will be deeply felt. His rhythmic mastery, innovative spirit, and boundless contributions to the realm of jazz-funk resonate in the hearts of music enthusiasts around the globe.
RIP Ivan
Please follow this link to listen to - Balance in Thinkin about Ivan Conti