Formed in Rio de Janeiro, Oruã has become stalwarts of the Brazilian lo-fi music scene. The band is lead by critically-acclaimed guitarist and producer Lê Almeida and is joined by long-time collaborators João Casaes (synths), Bigu Medine (bass) and Phill Fernandes (drums). Together, they blend lo-fi indie rock, krautrock, noise, afrobeat, and Brazilian references that range from Luiz Gonzaga’s primal Pernambuco sound to classic Brazilian psych rock. In 2019 their sound was discovered by indie rock legend Doug Martsch of Built to Spill, which led to him inviting Lê and João to become temporary members of the 90’s indie rock band. Later, they recorded, co-produced, and co-mixed Built to Spill’s most recent album, When the Wind Forgets Your Name, released in 2022 on Sub Pop Records.
After showcasing their high-energy shows in the US and Europe throughout the years, Oruã will return to the US in 2024 in support of their forthcoming album, PASSE (on Transfusão Noise Records). Their sound continues to mix the electric pulses of deconstructed guitars over a mesmerizing groove, taking both audience and band into a collective trance.