Supernovas: Sao Paulo

Just like everywhere else, corporate sponsorship in Sao Paulo isn't unusual when it comes to cultural events. But when you throw in the fact that they're often oil companies and major banks putting up a large part of the funds, it becomes kind of an odd thing. I'm mentioning this because I recently went to a Supernovas show, a music event happening every Tuesday in until May 15, that takes place in Sao Paulo's Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil. It's good to see that the ones with money are investing back into the country in this way. Supernovas aims to introduce Brazilian pop-rock acts outside of the Rio de Janeiro-Sao Paulo "axis" by pairing them with famous, established artists from the country. For example, in this week's show, I went to check out Montage, an electro-rock outfit from steamy Fortaleza on Brazil's North Coast . They've got a glam-rock type presence with androgynous singer to match. The special famous guest on drums? None other than Iggor Cavalera, ex-drummer of Sepultura, who has since gone on to a successful career as a DJ. In the following weeks, Pepeu Gomes, Cadao Volpato, Joao Ricardo, and more will be some of the important names lending their prowess to help call attention to these new bands.