Sonzeira

Sonzeira is Gilles Peterson’s immersive musical love-letter to Brazil — a project born from decades of crate-digging, admiration, and a desire to explore the country’s vibrant histories, rhythms, and sounds.

The first major release, Brasil Bam Bam Bam (2014), brought together an extraordinary constellation of talent, from Brazilian icons like Elza Soares, Seu Jorge, and Marcos Valle to contemporary innovators, alongside international collaborators such as producer Louie Vega. The result is a bold yet respectful fusion of samba, bossa nova, tropicalia, baile funk and more — alive with the energy of both heritage and experiment.

In Tam Tam Tam Reimagined (2016), Peterson and his co-producers revisited José Prates’ 1957 classic Tam Tam Tam, using its fragments and motifs as a launchpad for fresh interpretations that bridge past and present, tradition and innovation.

Through Sonzeira, Peterson acts as curator and producer, spotlighting Brazil’s deep musical roots while showing how they continue to evolve, inspire, and connect with global sounds today.