Botafogo is back with Brazilian beat

The catchy Brazilian beat is in town with the return of Botafogo, which last year had audiences getting up and dancing to the "listenable" samba and bossa nova rhythms.

Under the Café Brazil label, and brought over by Fringe! Productions, the Paris-based band, which gave its first show last night, has been described as "an eclectic mix of highly able musicians" by artistic director and producer Andrew Alamango.

Last year's Café Brazil received a "massive" response, the Brazilian flavour having a strong appeal. "It simply sells," said Mr Alamango on his decision to bring back the band.

Singer Catia Werneck has had to drop out at the 11th hour due to ill health, but she is being replaced by Chloe Cailleton, one of the most sought-after voices in Brazilian-style music in Paris, known for her vocal quality and interpretation.

Botafogo is led by bassist Jacques Figueras, who has been working on the Brazilian and European scene. He is being accompanied by one of Brazil's top percussionists, or panderistas, Sergio Krakowsky, who already performed at the Fringe! Jazz Festival earlier in the year.

Hailing from the choro tradition of Rio de Janeiro, which is older than samba or bossa nova, the pandero (tambourine) virtuoso is known for his innovation in technique and style, and for reviving the overshadowed style.

The Botafogo line-up also includes Paris-based Maltese guitarist Sandro Zerafa and flute player Jocelyn Mienniel.

Supported by Malta International Airport and Grand Hotel Excelsior, Café Brazil is being held this weekend at MITP in St Christopher Street, Valletta. Tickets, costing €12.50, are available at the door and from St James Cavalier.