In the Tupi language, “Uaná” means firefly (Vagalume, in Portuguese), a fitting title for this autobiographical album by the Paraiban pianist Uaná Barreto. Since childhood, when he began his studies, Barreto has been building a rich sonic narrative, expressed in this debut project as a composer.

Vagalume aesthetically traverses a vast spectrum of global music, blending harmoniously with the creative spirit of Brazilian music. From his early musical immersions, marked by concerts in João Pessoa, through the rich heritage of classical music—from Prokofiev to Villa-Lobos, from Bartók to Kapustin—Uaná Barreto’s music incorporates the complex African polyrhythms, the essence of jazz, and contemporary music from icons like Toninho Horta, Egberto Gismonti, and Pat Metheny.

His piano interpretations highlight the suite Reza a Lenda, which evokes figures from Brazilian folklore such as Curupira, Iara, Mula-Sem-Cabeça, Cumade Fulozinha, Neguinho do Pastoreio, and Saci-Pererê, where the composer floats through atonal and modal landscapes. The title track Vagalume features the luxurious collaboration of the acclaimed Quinteto da Paraíba. Here, the piano outlines the intricate dialogue of melodies and counterpoints of the strings, exploring contrasts and colorful resonances.

With a touch of delicacy and depth, Vagalume illuminates the personal journey of Uaná Barreto so far, while also projecting the indelible impression of a welcome and enduring artistic maturity.