Rather than squeezing through crowds for a good view at the Acura Stage, I figured all of the smaller stages would be putting on their best acts last, so I had a feeling I really couldn't go wrong. I decided to go check out some bands I'd never heard of, going by a simple, general rule of mine: If it's from Brazil, it's probably good.

The first stop on my Brazilian tour was the Lagniappe Stage, tucked into the grandstands, where the sun poked its head out like a turtle from its shell. Patrice Fisher and Arpa featuring Chiko & Rogerio with Lateiros Curupira of Brazil were back there playing an outstanding mixture of acoustic guitar, harp, drums, flute, violin and other instruments that all came together in a beautiful way. After a few songs, they brought out some kids on drums, and I was very impressed by their natural musicianship — they weren't just for show, they were absolutely contributing bandmembers.

But I noted that there was another Brazilian band over on the Jazz & Heritage Stage. It seems Ilê Aiyê were in agreement with my other rule of thumb: You really can't have too many drums. In fact, aside from a vocalist and dancers, they didn't have anything else — nor did they need it. I snapped a few pictures and then decided it was time to put the camera away; I needed to stomp out some serious dance moves.

Ilé Aiyé