In 1966, one of the most prominent Brazilian rock bands formed: Os Mutantes.

The group has a psychedelic sound infused with notions of the Tropicália movement, an artistic movement in the 1960s that combined traditional Brazilian culture and foreign influences. The band garnered significant international interest, but then took a 30-year hiatus in the 1970s before returning in 2006. It has been touring on and off since then.

The band has experienced several personnel changes, but the current members include Sérigo Dias, Vinicius Janqueira, Esmeria Bulgari, Henrique Peters, Vitor Trida and Cláudio Tchernev. Throughout its history, the band has released nine albums. A 10th album, called “Fool Metal Jack,” is coming soon.

Os Mutantes will be performing at the Westcott Theater on Nov. 10. The Daily Orange spoke with Dias, a singer and guitarist in the band, about the band’s history, influences and most recent album.

The Daily Orange: How do you describe your music?

Sérgio Dias: It has a lot of flavor of Brazil. The type of music we play is psychedelic and rock ‘n’ roll. Our music, especially in the beginning, was influenced by the Tropicália movement.

The D.O.: What can fans expect from “Fool Metal Jack,” your upcoming album?

Dias: It is very much of an awareness album. It has a lot of politics, a lot of jokes. It is a strong and clean album. I am very happy with it.

The D.O.: What bands or other performers would you compare your style to?

Dias: That’s a hard one, because everyone is trying to compare to us. Kurt Cobain, maybe. We are a very unique band.

The D.O.: What inspires your music?

Dias: The mountains of Nevada, the supermarket, a kiss from your wife, my cats, my car — everything that touches us influences our music.

The D.O.: How does your band appeal to students?

Dias: We are honest. We are not pursuing money or fame. We are perusing music for the pleasure of it. If you’re not having fun with whatever you do, you should drop it. You could be dead tomorrow. I could be dead tomorrow. This is a very good motto to live by. This is important — it’s all about inner fulfillment.

The D.O.: Do you have a message to aspiring musicians?

Dias: Never give up on your dreams because this is not commercial. Believe in yourself. Believe in your music.

Published on November 6, 2013 at 9:56 pm