Founded in 1966 in São Paulo, Brazil, Quarteto Novo was a short-lived jazz quartet that not only recorded an influential album but also helped launch the careers of four of Brazil’s finest jazz musicians. Originally formed by percussionist Airto Moreira, bassist/guitarist Theo de Barros, and viola/guitarist Heraldo do Monte as Trio Novo, the group was originally formed to back singer/songwriter Geraldo Vandré. Soon after their formation, they brought in flutist Hermeto Pascoal and renamed the band Quarteto Novo. In 1967, they recorded their only album, Quarteto Novo, released on Odeon Records. The album had a significant impact in Brazil since it was the first to combine Northwestern Brazilian music with jazz improvisation. The group – and album – won several awards and earned critical praise from the press. The band backed several musicians live including singer Edu Lobo before breaking up in 1969.
