VI.BE

With their unique and intoxicating blend of electronica, saudade, and alternative pop with a worldly touch, Ão has rapidly become one of the most exciting acts in Belgium’s rich and diverse music scene.

They debuted with the single Mulher in late 2022 and made an immediate global impact, even catching the attention of the influential Seattle-based radio station KEXP.

One year later, their debut album Ao Mar was released to rave reviews and widespread acclaim. Featuring dark, summer-infused, ingenious, and multifaceted tracks like Avó, Meninas, and More, the album solidified their place as a must-watch act.

Frontwoman Brenda Corijn, drawing on her Mozambican-Portuguese roots, sings in both Portuguese and English. Her mellifluous voice intertwines with the southern guitar stylings of Siebe Chau, the textured electronics of Jolan Decaestecker, and the eclectic percussion of Bert Peyffers.

Live, the four-piece delivers an immersive and mind-blowing experience, dazzling audiences across Europe. Their dynamic sound—ranging from delicate, intimate melodies to danceable beats—has taken them to a wide range of festivals, from electronic to rock, global, and jazz stages. With Ao Mar, they toured extensively, gracing festivals like Pukkelpop, Gent Jazz, Cactus Festival, ESNS, MENT, WOMEX, Lokerse Feesten, and Reeperbahn, as well as sold-out venues like Ancienne Belgique, Botanique, and De Roma.

A fantastic 2023 was topped off with a nomination for a Belgian music industry award for Best Breakthrough Act.

Ão will be touring extensively in the coming months, continuing to sweep European audiences off their feet. Meanwhile, they are also working on their second album, set to be released in 2026.

And in case you’re wondering what Ão [ɐ͂w̃] means: depending on the pronunciation, it can express something beautiful [aaw] , something sad or painful [oww], a sense of wonder [auuw]—or plain nonsense. One thing is sure, you’ll be in awe.