Apparently, there’s a lo-fi scene in Brazil. And Oruã is in the thick of it. Founded in Rio de Janeiro by guitarist/producer Lê Almeida, the expansive psych/rock outfit was discovered on these shores by Built To Spill’s Doug Martsch, who hired Almeida and keyboardist João Casaes as temporary members. The two had a hand in the recording, production and mixing of Built To Spill’s 2022 LP, When The Wind Forgets Your Name, and Oruã later toured with Martsch and Co.
The mutual love fest continues with Oruã’s forthcoming LP, Slacker (K), which was produced by BTS guitarist Jim Roth. An inspired collision of noisy guitars and lush vocals, “Casual” is the album’s third single.
“We made ‘Casual’ on the road during our 2023 U.S. tour,” says Almeida. “We were traveling together for a long time. The lyrics simply reflect on everyday emotions and the eternal morning grumpiness.”
The single’s cover art was created by Ana Zumpano, a longtime friend and collaborator who’s now the band’s drummer.
“The song addresses our indie-rock essence with distorted guitars and lost dreams in melodies,” says Almeida. “Jim Roth is present on the track, playing maracas with casual élan.”
We’re proud to premier Oruã’s “Casual.” Look for Slacker October 24.
—Hobart Rowland
