The Gulf Coast of Louisiana and the country of Brazil share a connection through the influence of African rhythms and the public celebration of Mardi Gras -- also known as Carnival (or in Portuguese, Carnaval) -- which in both cases is marked by large, colorful parades and an outpouring of holiday-related music.

In New Orleans, the social groups that participate in parades are known as “krewes”; in Brazil, they are called “samba schools” and feature legions of marching drummers, as opposed to the drum-and-brass marching units familiar in the United States.

The formation of Casa Samba, which is based on the model of Brazilian samba schools, marks the realization of New Orleans native Curtis Pierre’s lifelong commitment to the study, performance, and teaching of Brazilian rhythms, many of which share sources that also influenced music in the Caribbean, Haiti, Cuba, and New Orleans.

And Afro-Brazilian Fantasy presents a wide-ranging showcase of authentic Brazilian rhythmic diversity along with a demonstration of Brazilian and African rhythms that have shaped New Orleans’ musical culture and heritage.

Fans of world music in general and lovers of complex drumming rhythms in particular will revel in both the authenticity and creativity of these vividly recorded performances, which present an overflowing variety of classic Afro-Brazilian sounds and creative compositions that highlight the Brazilian connection to New Orleans’ musical heritage.

Afro-Brazilian Fantasy is the real deal, a mesmerizing and truly inspiring mix of new and ancient rhythms rendered with both astounding clarity and a deep understanding of genuine Afro-Brazilian musical culture.