I remember the day I first heard Madredeus. I was drinking a coffee in a cafe and suddenly became aware of one of the most beautiful voices I had ever heard. The music ranged from atmospheric and hypnotic to obviously European style with accordians and guitars. I’ve always loved Irish and folk music and this deceptively simple music stood out as being technically excellent as well as highly pleasurable.
Way back when I used to be into Goth music and whilst my style and make-up have changed, the love of the melancholy has never left me. Whilst you will find some upbeat major chords in the music of Madredeus the typical ‘saudade’ of fado is never far away. What draws me most aside from the obvious Portuguese connection is the tenderness of expression heard throughout every song.