Sat 22 Nov 2025, 20:00 – Brazilian Night by Emiliano Sampaio Meretrio

Meretrio stands as an extraordinary Brazilian trio that has been creating innovative and captivating music for 20 years. Over the years, Meretrio has toured extensively, performing across Brazil, multiple times in Europe, and twice in Australia, appearing at some of the biggest festivals. The trio has crafted ten unique albums, each a testament to the intricate musical connection shared by these three Brazilian musicians.

In 2025, Meretrio releases its 11th album, celebrating two decades together as a band. This album promises to feature original compositions inspired by Afro-Brazilian musical traditions, skillfully blended with elements of chamber music and jazz. The trio's sound explores diverse combinations of drums, percussion, bass, guitar, trombone, and a loop machine, expanding the boundaries of sonic possibilities.

In recent years, Meretrio has pursued collaborative projects, producing two albums with the renowned flutist and saxophonist Heinrich von Kalnein of Jazz Big Band Graz: Live at the Birds Eye and Passagem.

In 2021, Meretrio released an album dedicated to Brazilian folk music, with a special focus on "Choro." Originating in 19th-century Brazil, this genre is seen as the precursor of urban Brazilian music. Meretrio's interpretation earned them a nomination from the German Record Critics' Award (Deutsche Schallplattenkritik).

Their 2016 release, Óbvio, received widespread acclaim, earning a four-star review from DownBeat magazine. In 2019, the trio released a double album titled Music for Small and Large Ensembles. Meretrio's recent works have resonated with critics and audiences alike, earning the distinction of one of DownBeatmagazine's "Best Albums of the Year" in 2017.

Reviews
"Playing together in a band for 20 years can be challenging on so many levels, but in the end it is nothing but beautiful, and there is nothing else you can do than play, play, play, play, play, play, play, play and PLAY together to come up with a unique sound and expression like this trio has gotten during the years. You can't rehearse the sound of 20 years as a band! That's impossible, and that's what makes it so nice to listen to. What I hear on this album is three great open minded musicians, creating music together with their own soundprint on. I hear the Brazilian soul and DNA in their feel and groove. (Which is mindblowing!)I hear traces of my all time favorites Quarteto Novo, Milton Nascimento, Cartola, Baden Powell & Vinicius De Moraes as well as pre-ECM Egberto Gismonti. I hear some late 90's John Scofield and Pat Metheny inspired Acoustic guitar vibes. Oh Yeah, I hear Wes Montgomerey. I even hear some Johan Sebastian Bach!!On top of that I hear a great dose of virtuosity and great love for the music itself! Thank you for the music guys, and congrats with your 20 years anniversary. I look forward to pay attention to the next 20." Gard Nilssen, ECM Artist (2024)

"Emiliano´s vibrant music is a testament to his two decades of dedication and creativity with his amazing Meretrio. This album beautifully showcases their growth, fusing Brazilian traditions with jazz elements, celebrating 20 years of musical excellence. Wishing Emiliano and Meretrio continued success on their musical journey ahead!" |
Samuel Blaser (2024)

"Emiliano Sampaio is simply a wonderfully gifted musician! His talent is clearly represented on these new recordings, going back to his Brazilian roots. This is certainly a recording to add to your library!"
Jiggs Whigham (2020)

"Meretrio digs deep into Brazilian Choro repertoire and in the process brings a completely fresh and beautiful sound."
Paulo Morello (2020)

„Meretrio is a cohesive unit that favours a tight, groove-oriented sound, but one that allows for immense freedom within that space."
Brian Zimmerman, Downbeat Magazin (2017)

Line-up:
Emiliano Sampaio - Guitar/Trombone
Luis Oliveira - Drums
Gustavo Boni - Bass