For those unaware, the brand new debut album from The Juan Megna Group is entitled Mariwô and consists of five of Juan Megna’s original compositions, an arrangement of Moacir Santos’ “Coisa No2”, and an arrangement of Luis Perez’ “Si Estuvieras”.

The music is mainly inspired by traditional melodies and rhythms coming from the Afro-Brazilian religion known as Candomblé, where different cultures from the African Diaspora are syncretized in their ceremonies.

In addition, some Argentinian rhythms, such as milonga and chacareras are present in Juan Megna’s compositions and arrangements.

Born in Argentina and professionally forged in the state of Sāo Paulo, Brazil, drummer, and percussionist Juan Megna carries a rich musical baggage expressed both as a performer and composer.

Based in Washington DC, Juan Megna is a versatile musician that musically transits between Afro-Brazilian genres, Jazz, Argentinian milongas, and chacareras. He had played/recorded with Marshall Keys, Michael Bowie, and Shawn Purcell, as well as well-regarded Brazilian artists such as Vinicius Dorim, Rubinho Antunes, Bruno Mangueira, and Felipe Silveira among others.

1. Mariwô
2. Fára Ogunjá
3. Amarelinha
4. Paô
5. Si Estuvieras
6. Coisa No2 (Moacir Santos)
7. The Owl Look

Performing music inspired mostly by Afro-Brazilian Candomblé rhythms and traditional tunes, the album opens on the mesmerizing samba of the titular Mariwô and the free flowing hipsway within Fára Ogunjá and they are followed by the harmoniously structured Amarelinha and the upbeat and gently fevered Paô.

Along next is the luxuriant Si Estuvieras and that is in turn backed by the rhythmically enchanting Coisa No2 (Moacir Santos), the recording closing out on the dutifully resplendent The Owl Look.

www.juanmegna.com