Meretrio featuring Chico Santana & Joander Cruz

In 2026, Meretrio expands into a quintet, joined by saxophonist Joander Cruz, originally from Bahia, Brazil, and now based in Vienna, and percussionist Chico Santana, professor of percussion at the Federal University of Paraíba in Brazil.

Together, the five musicians explore a new sonic concept that brings the rhythmic and melodic richness of Afro-Brazilian musical traditions into dialogue with contemporary jazz. The project features exclusively original compositions written specifically for this special line-up.

Following five concerts in Austria, the quintet went straight into the studio to record its debut album, scheduled for release in 2028.

Line-up

Emiliano Sampaio – guitar, trombone, percussion
Luis Oliveira – drums, percussion
Gustavo Boni – bass, percussion

Special guests

Joander Cruz – saxophone, percussion
Chico Santana – percussion