Awichas

AWICHAS is a band initiated by Bolivian-Brazilian artist Ibelisse Guardia Ferragutti that blends ancient Andean ritual music, and electronics with jazz-inflected percussion and club-inspired rhythms.

In 2024, Guardia Ferragutti and sound artist Jochem van Tol travelled through Bolivia's mystical environments, recording sounds and collecting experiences that became the foundation of the project. Back in the studio, these field recordings were transformed through the use of vintage electronic instruments, including the Buchla 100 and 200 synthesizers, which form the project's sonic backbone.

Joined by an all-star ensemble—including Frank Rosaly, Jacob Maskell-Key, Lida Brouskari, Julia Werner, and van Tol—the project blossoms into a hypnotic live performance of layered, jazz-inflected rhythms, psychedelic textures, and devotional songs. The result is the immersive and exhilarating performance that is AWICHAS.

PRESS:
"The blend of what you might call "folklore" and "hi-tech" elements is exciting and thrilling. It borders on ritual, but ultimately, it's a true "concert." These are all top-notch musicians who don't tolerate any "messiness." It also takes some getting used to: Latin music without strings or wind instruments. And the combination of vocals, electronics, and drums often has a somewhat understated quality. But at the same time, the result, thanks in part to Ferragutti's own performance, is exhilarating. And the wealth of musical discoveries captivates the audience on stage. Take, for example, the aforementioned Bolivian flute harmonies, which initially emerge from the sampler but reappear later in the concert in the singers' voices. In the finale, the rhythms become more asymmetrical and the movements more exuberant. When it's over, time seems to have flown by."

Live Performance Cinetol - 6 September 2025 | Peter Bruyn - GONZOcircus Magazine

Read more about AWICHAS in this
interview with Jasper Willems >