Summary:
Luca Argel has lived in Portugal for over a decade, moving to Lisbon recently.
His new album, Visita, showcases his artistic journey and offers a menu of his repertoire.
Luca's experience as an immigrant has been unique, integrating well into the cultural scene.
He highlights the housing crisis in Lisbon and addresses it through his music.
Luca admires the April 25th revolution, seeing it as a vital part of Portuguese identity.
Meeting Luca Argel in Lisbon
Luca Argel, a Brazilian singer and composer, has made Lisbon his home for the past two years after spending a decade in Porto. He recently presented his new album "Visita" at the University Nova of Lisbon, showcasing his talent and unique story as an immigrant.
A Journey of Transformation
Arriving in Portugal 12 years ago to pursue his master's degree, Luca initially attended the University of Aveiro but soon transferred to the University of Porto. His thesis on Brazilian poet Vinicius de Moraes earned him high praise, and he immersed himself in the local music scene, founding the group Samba Sem Fronteiras and releasing six albums.
The Move to Lisbon
Luca's move to Lisbon was driven by personal and professional reasons, including a desire to be closer to his godson and explore new creative opportunities. He finds Lisbon visually reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro, yet culturally distinct, noting that the people of Lisbon are more reserved compared to the expansive nature of Cariocas.
Cultural Dynamics in Lisbon
Luca appreciates the vibrant cultural scene in Lisbon, which he finds rich and diverse, particularly noting the significant African influence. He believes that while there is a wealth of cultural offerings, many immigrants are still marginalized in their contributions.
An Immigrant's Perspective
Luca reflects on his experience as an immigrant, stating that he has been well-received in Portugal's cultural circles, which has allowed him to integrate comfortably. He emphasizes that his story is not typical for many immigrants, as he enjoys citizenship and stability that many do not.
The Significance of "Visita"
His new album, "Visita", serves as a showcase of his artistic journey and a welcoming entry point for new listeners. The album features a blend of previous works and new interpretations, highlighting his growth as an artist.
Addressing Housing Issues
Luca expresses concern over the housing crisis in Lisbon, sharing his personal struggles to find affordable accommodation. His song "Gentrificasamba" addresses gentrification, a pressing issue in both Lisbon and Porto, resonating with audiences globally.
Reflections on April 25th
Luca admires Portugal’s historic April 25th revolution, expressing envy that Brazil lacks a similar commemorative date for its democratic struggles. He believes that the values of this date are integral to Portuguese identity and that the fight for democracy remains ongoing.
Cultural Inspirations
Amidst the challenges, Luca draws inspiration from the vibrant artistic community in Lisbon, mentioning a future collaboration that will explore the legacy of Vinicius de Moraes in a contemporary context. He remains optimistic about his contributions to the cultural landscape of Lisbon, despite the challenges faced by the city today.
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