Da Weasel

Portuguese hip-hop pioneers Da Weasel were an integral part of the first wave of European groups to get on the rap bandwagon, releasing their debut record in 1993. Formed in Almada, MCs Pacman and Virgul were backed by a full band including bass (Jay Jay Neige), guitar (Pedro Quaresma), drums (Guilherme Silva), and various DJs. Drawing on influences like Cypress Hill and Public Enemy while incorporating elements of rock and ska, the live hip-hop act's debut record, More Than 30 M**********rs, featuring only six tracks with all-English lyrics, opened doors to the band's participation in the popular Rapublica compilation, which hit shelves a year later. The incredibly successful compilation set the stage for Da Weasel's first full-length release, Dou-Ihe Com a Alma, released that same year. Still enjoying grassroots recognition in lieu of widespread success, the band released its third production, 3º Capítulo, in 1997, followed by its first national tour. Again participating in a number of important compilations, Da Weasel's first silver record, Iniciação a Uma Vida Banal — O Manual, earned them opportunities to play important venues, including a stint opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1999. The Mário Barreiros-produced Podes Fugir Mas Nao Te Podes Esconder, featuring Cuban hip-hoppers Las Orishas, went on to earn Da Weasel their first platinum record. Three years later in 2004, Re-Definições became their best-selling record to date, earning the band an MTV Europe Music Award for Best Portuguese Act. Nearly 15 years after the group's formation, Da Weasel released their seventh original release in 2007, entitled Amor, Escarnio e Maldizer. The band's ever-climbing popularity was evidenced by the record's incredible sales, moving more than 20,000 copies in the first day of its release. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, Rovi