Photo: Gui Bailey
Naná Rizinni has been a key figure in São Paulo’s alternative scene for years, building a reputation as a terrific drummer, producer and composer with a strong experimental edge. Rizinni draws on her background in Brazilian music but her work expands beyond that, pulling in electronics, improvisation and a more experimental, jazz-leaning approach. Since moving to London in 2020, her sound has continued to evolve, shaped by a new environment and new collaborations.
Today, she releases Epiblast, her new album reflecting a period of major shifts in her life. Written during her first years in London, the album follows a full emotional cycle, from the excitement of becoming a parent and settling into a new city, to processing the loss of her brother. That sense of transformation sits at the core of the project. Rizinni explains:
“The title ‘Epiblast’ comes from an early embryonic layer from which the entire organism develops. For me, it represents multiple births and rebirths — new roles, identities, and directions — capturing both fragility and infinite potential.”
On Epiblast, there’s a strong rhythmic foundation, but it’s constantly shifting, blending acoustic elements with electronics and leaving space for improvisation. Across the record, Rizinni moves between expansive soundscapes and more intimate moments, always keeping that balance between structure and spontaneity. The album was developed closely with saxophonist and producer Mark Cake, who co-wrote and co-produced the album, alongside additional contributions from Harry Jones on modular synths. That collaborative setup plays a big role in the album’s feel, with a strong sense of shared exploration running through the music. As Rizinni puts it:
“I’ve absorbed influences for years, from Brazilian traditions to UK experimental jazz, and this album is the first time I’ve found a language that feels fully mine. I couldn’t have done this without Mark and Harry – we are a trio that thrives on improvisation and interaction, so this record is not just my story, it’s about how we, as a unit, create a world of sound together.”
Effervescent, intimate and enthralling, Epiblast is a masterpiece of an album. As a taster of what’s on offer, check out the lead single ‘The Right Side of the Escalator’ and ‘VVV Rerework’.
Epiblast is out now through Bridge The Gap
