The popular Cabo Verdean band Ferro Gaita is set to perform at the MIMO Festival in Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil, from September 25 to 27. The band will take to the stage on Saturday, September 26, at 9:00 PM local time, at the Praça do Carmo. This will be their first time performing in Brazil, and they will be showcasing the energy of funaná, a powerful expression of Cabo Verdean music culture.
Before their performance at the MIMO Festival, Ferro Gaita will also present a show on Thursday, September 24, at the Centro Cultural de São Paulo in São Paulo, Brazil. The band, founded in 1996, is known for its unique sound, which combines the ferro, a metal percussion instrument, and the gaita, a type of accordion. With a career spanning over 30 years, Ferro Gaita has become one of the biggest references for funaná music worldwide.
Funaná, a genre born on the island of Santiago, was marginalized and even banned in public spaces during the colonial period. However, Ferro Gaita played a crucial role in reviving and promoting the genre, making it accessible to a new generation. Their music is characterized by the energetic combination of accordion, percussion, and fast-paced rhythms, creating a vibrant and irresistible sound.
Throughout their career, Ferro Gaita has built an impressive discography, with notable works such as "Fundu Baxu" and "Bandera Liberdadi". In 2026, the band is celebrating its 30th anniversary with the release of "Tokador DI Gaita", a new album featuring 14 tracks that reaffirm the vitality of their music and connection to funaná roots.
Ferro Gaita has received numerous awards and nominations, including a Kora Awards nomination. The band has performed on stages across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, sharing the spotlight with renowned Cabo Verdean musicians like Cesária Évora. Unfortunately, the band recently lost one of its founding members and vocalists, Bino Branco, in August 2026.
The MIMO Festival, where Ferro Gaita will be performing, is a significant event that showcases diverse musical talents. The festival will take place in Olinda, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Ferro Gaita's participation in the festival is expected to be a highlight, bringing the unique energy of Cabo Verdean music to a wider audience.
With their performance at the MIMO Festival, Ferro Gaita continues to promote Cabo Verdean culture and music globally. The band's 30-year journey is a testament to the power of music in preserving cultural heritage and bridging communities. As they celebrate this milestone, Ferro Gaita remains committed to sharing their music and cultural identity with the world.
Key points
- Ferro Gaita to perform at MIMO Festival in Olinda, Brazil
- Band celebrates 30 years of promoting funaná music
- Ferro Gaita's performance to showcase Cabo Verdean music culture
