Bossa Nova is a rhythmic Brazilian style of music that derived from Samba in the late 60s and early 70s. The style is often associated with jazz, but in the mid-60s it was brought firmly into the realm of pop music by Sergio Mendes & Brasil 66, who evolved it further by applying bossa rhythms to popular hit songs of the time, performed by other Brazilian artists, as well as by Dusty Springfield, Simon & Garfunkle and the Beatles.

Now Sambatico brings back a taste of Brazil with many of the songs made famous by Mendes, as well as by applying his formula to their own pop choices. Their repertoire includes Brasil 66 hits such as Mas Que Nada, Fool on the Hill, Look of Love and Scarborough Fair as well as classic bossa nova hits like Girl from Ipanema and Desifinado to their own "bossafied" versions of popular songs from the 60s and beyond. Lead by respected composer/pianist Phil Barish, the music of Sambatico will have you swaying to gentle breezes, even in the coldest of Chicago weather. The band is fronted by Ms. Summer Kwai, whose smooth, rich voice is backed by a bevy of talented ladies, including Lisa Kleis on bass, and joined by the solid beat of Jim Glay. Members of Sambatico have performed with well-known classical orchestras, such as Civic Orchestra of Chicago, local jazz ensembles, and Latin groups like Grupo ChaCha and Samana. Percussionist Coco Elysses offers her recording experience in Santiago, Chile & Los Angeles to add authentic Latin flavor, while Lise Gilly's sax & flute rounds out the band's "braza" sound.

The band also has the ability to offer classic jazz music from the Great American Songbook—from Cole Porter to Ella Fitzgerald—to provide a full and varied evening of music. From black-tie affair to niteclub, street dance to park concert, Sambatico will bring the white beaches of Brazil to your event.

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