João Ferraz

Under the influence of clube da esquina and bossa nova, João began playing the guitar at the age of twelve. His first album, SAPO was born while João was living overseas, but its debut only ocurred at the begin of 2007 in Brazil. Right at its release, the album received top stars at Globo, the biggest brazilian newspaper, Joao and his group where at the cover of Estado de Minas newspaper , the biggest of Minas Gerais, being considered the new generation of musicians from Minas. The album was also claimed by the Canadians at the jazzwolrdquest.com. "an exuberant and elegant fusion of brazilian rhythms with modern jazz sounds. João Ferraz harmonies are reminscent of Toninho Horta´s sonorities and the album is recommended for those who want to hear what´s new and criative in the actual Brazilian music".

In 2009-2010, Joao releases his second album, MINEIRO BAO. "Here's the second album released by brazilian guitarist and composer Joao Ferraz who is continuing his path of mixing contemporary jazz with a good variety of Brazilian (Minas Gerais) rhytms. His modern signature style already distinct on his previous CD: Sapo, is getting more clarity on "Mineiro Bao". This time the overall sound is more "Brazilian", featuring the charming voices of Marcela Velon and Fael Mondego, backed by a cohesive and dynamic rhythm section. On guitar Joao Ferraz is moving freely between ballads, quick-tempos, solos and colorful accents with the same spontaneity and warm feel. A special mention for the 4th song, "Debaixo Da Pedra", where he is joined on harmonica by Gabriel Grossi in a wonderful free style swingy duet. Another great moment of the album is the delicate "Gafierinha", where I appreciated the harmony of Trombone-Trumpet-Sax combo nicely blending with Joao's guitar. On the next song Joao sings in an exuberant duet with Marcela Velon. A very melodious album to bring a little sunshine in your life".(jazzwolrdquest.com)