LISTEN: Biribá Union’s “Ice Cream City” Brings Jovial Melodies To Innovative Instrumentation

One of the only bands in the world to combine cello, beatbox, electric bass, and vocals, Biribá Union’s grooves are infectious, and their rhythms tap into the heartbeat of the planet.

Made up of three accomplished musicians in their own right: Grammy-winning, classically trained cellist/vocalist Mike Block, Grammy-nominated beatboxer/rapper/guitarist Christylez Bacon, and renowned Uruguayan bassist/vocalist Patricia Ligia, each member brings their unique talents and perspectives to the band to create a sum that’s greater than its parts.

Biribá Union’s debut full-length album, Passing Go, due out July 10 on Bright Shiny Things, weaves together elements of Forró music from northeast Brazil, samba/Baiao rhythms, indie-pop songwriting, hip-hop, and jazz improvisation, to name a few. With Mike’s cello and vocals as the band’s primary melodic drivers, Patricia has free rein on the bass to explore

different textures and rhythms, while Christylez lets his beatbox magic and hip-hop stylings flow.
With their anticipated debut album just over the hill, Biribá Union unleashes the unassuming grooves and unforgettable colors of “Ice Cream City.” The wonderfully whimsical world that the trio builds on their new single is one begging to be explored, as their refreshing fusion work erects pink skyscrapers set against a green sky. Block’s cello whirls around funky basslines and head-spinning vocal percussion, unearthing alien textures that are jovial, welcoming, and overall, a bright sliver of sonic light when the clouds form above. The captivating instrumentation slowly builds to a head-spinning verse from Bacon that ties the joy of “Ice Cream City” together in a visually appealing bow. Biribá Union is primed to be a name you see circulating in the music world, and their latest single is just a slice of what is promised on Passing Go.