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Grupo Falso Baiano is one of just a handful of groups currently performing choro in the US. A precursor to bossa nova, choro originated during the late 19th century as Brazil’s first national music, fusing African rhythms with intricate melodies and harmonies. Since forming over 5 years ago, no west coast ensemble has done more to keep choro in the foreground than Grupo Falso Baiano. With a repertoire spanning more than a century, G.F.B. plays traditional choro, as well as contemporary, jazz-tinged arrangements by modern masters like Hermeto Pascoal and Hamilton de Holanda. The dynamic young quartet features Zack Pitt-Smith on reeds, Jesse Appelman on bandolim, Brian Moran on 7 string guitar, and Ami Molinelli on percussion. They bring their signature sound, filled with breakneck tempos, delirious interplay and infectious rhythms to Yoshi’s Oakland on July 14th, with special guests Michael Spiro and Ana Carbatti

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