Brazilian composer, singer, and clarinetist Maria Beraldo is one of the most relevant voices in today’s queer scene. With Cavala, her debut album, Beraldo reflects both the urgency of her message and her determination to assert herself as a lesbian woman within contemporary Brazilian songwriting. Cavala tears through everything, even her own past. She once played clarinet and bass clarinet in Arrigo Barnabé’s band, was part of Quartabê and Bolerinho, and collaborated with artists such as Elza Soares, Negro Leo, Iara Rennó, and Rodrigo Campos. In Colinho (2024), she once again explores sexuality, intimacy, and queer representation. Blending jazz, pop, samba, choro, punk, and funk, Beraldo delivers a work that reflects both the plurality of Brazilian music and the urgency of her political and emotional message.