Members
Select a Forro in the Dark band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Forro in the Dark is a dynamic musical group known for their innovative blend of Brazilian forró, rock, and jazz influences. Formed in 2002, the band originated as a one-off project for founder Mauro Refosco's birthday party in New York City. The lineup features Refosco on zabumba (a traditional Brazilian drum), Smokey Hormel and Guilherme Monteiro on guitars, Jorge Continentino on reeds, and percussionists Gilmar Gomes and Davi Vieira. Their music is a modern twist on forró, a rhythmic style from northeastern Brazil, infused with global sounds and textures.
How to Sound Like Forro in the Dark
Forro in the Dark's sound is characterized by a percussion-heavy, rhythmic foundation that drives their music forward with an intoxicating energy. The zabumba and additional percussion create a deeply rooted, danceable groove, while the guitars provide both melodic and harmonic support, often employing clean tones and subtle effects to maintain clarity amidst the rhythmic complexity. The reeds add a layer of melodic sophistication, weaving in and out of the grooves with fluidity. Achieving their vibrant sound involves a balance of acoustic and electric elements, often supported by live dynamics and interactive arrangements. Musicians looking to capture their essence should focus on tight, syncopated rhythms and a blend of acoustic percussion with electric guitar tones, enhanced by organic interplay and dynamic improvisation.
