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340ml is a Mozambican band that emerged in 2000, celebrated for its bold and distinctive sound - a vibrant fusion of Reggae, Dub, Jazz, Afrobeat, and an eclectic mix of global influences. Their name, derived from the 340ml size of a common beverage can in Southern Africa, symbolizes both their cultural roots and their unfiltered authenticity.
Formed in Johannesburg, South Africa, by four Mozambican friends - Pedro da Silva Pinto (vocals), Tiago Correia-Paulo (guitar), Paulo Chibanga (drums), and Rui Soeiro (bass) - 340ml’s music reflects the unique intersection of their Mozambican heritage and their experiences in South Africa’s vibrant multicultural melting pot. While their origins lie in Mozambique, it was in Johannesburg that they honed their experimental sound, blending the rhythms and soul of Africa with global genres to create something entirely their own.
The band’s music is a masterful blend of African rhythms with elements of Reggae, Jazz, and Dub. Their lyrics, thought-provoking and poetic, often touch on themes of identity, migration, social justice, and cultural pride. 340ml’s debut album, Moving (2003), was released independently before being picked up by SONY Music South Africa. The album received critical acclaim, with the hauntingly beautiful track “Midnight” becoming an anthem of a generation. Its evocative lyrics and hypnotic rhythm still resonate with fans today, cementing its place as a defining piece of the band’s legacy.
Their follow-up, Sorry for the Delay (2008), further solidified 340ml as one of the most innovative acts in the African music scene. It not only won the South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Alternative Album, but also took home the award for Best Engineered Album, a testament to the album’s exceptional production.
Over the years, the band has garnered numerous accolades and nominations, and their music has appeared in various compilations and soundtracks. They've played on some of the most prestigious stages across Africa and Europe, earning acclaim for their powerful, mesmerizing live performances that have captivated audiences around the world.
Though 340ml disbanded in 2012, their impact on modern African music endures. Their bold fusion of cultural heritage and global sounds has inspired a new wave of African artists to experiment and push boundaries. Through their music, 340ml has helped put Mozambican music on the map, and their legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians today. The band remains a symbol of the creative spirit and the power of cross-cultural collaboration - a true testament to the evolving sound of modern Africa.
