Corvos

Originating from conservatory training, the pop and contemporary string quartet known as Corvos merges classical traditions with rock and electronic influences in their distinctive sound. The lineup features Pedro Teixeira on first violin, Nuno Flores on viola, Tiago Flores on second violin, and Cláudio Nunes on cello, all of whom possess formal classical educations. Specifically, Da Silva along with the Flores duo studied at the National Lisbon Conservatory, while Cláudio Nunes attended the Profissional School of Arts da Beira, providing the ensemble with solid classical foundations. Although the later addition of drummer Pedro Silva represents the sole contemporary music specialist, the group's stylistic inclinations clearly favor modern directions. Having grown up listening to bands such as Deep Purple and Metallica, the members of Corvos aimed in 2004 to merge the classical repertoire from their studies with the rock music they cherished. Their initial album, Corvos Visitam Xutos, and the follow-up Post Scriptum incorporated material from iconic rock figures including Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison, and Kurt Weill. Through nationwide tours spanning 2004 to 2007, this unusual fusion transformed Corvos into a widespread pop sensation across Portugal. The third release, Jinx, issued on the Som Livre label, advanced their reach further. Arrangements of the hits "Burning down the House" and the title track "The Jinx" controlled Portuguese radio for extended periods. Appearing on various Portuguese television shows in black attire and makeup while wielding electric string instruments, they enjoyed support from enthusiastic young followers. Achieving a peak position of number 2 on the Portuguese airplay charts, Jinx attained remarkable success for such a project.