Rio de Janeiro-born guitarist Helena Nagagata , known for her band Shamangra , has released her first original single, "Starlust," ahead of the release of her self-titled debut EP. Listen to the song at the end of this article.
“Starlust” is an instrumental composition featuring composition, production, arrangements and guitars by Helena, bass, orchestration and arrangements by Fábio Adour , programmed drums by Otávio Quiroga ( Hibria ), mixing by Gabriel Lima , mastering by Fernando Delgado and Breno Amorim , and cover art by Raphael Efez.
The name, according to a statement released to the press, is a play on words combining 'stardust' and 'lust,' reflecting "the relentless pursuit of something beyond ourselves in the universe – something that enriches us and brings us light, but also reveals our insignificance in the face of cosmic immensity."
Speaking about the EP, Helena commented: “I’m so happy and excited to officially release my solo work! I started working on it over a year ago and now to finally be able to share something with the world that is 100% you, that you put your whole heart into, is very special!”
“This EP primarily reflects my work as a guitarist, but it also showcases my passion for soundtracks, orchestral music, and progressive rock. Further down the line, I plan to explore other creative avenues, such as acoustic guitar and piano, but for this first release, I'm very happy because I believe I've achieved something that represents my identity as a guitarist and as a human being.”
Helena Nagagata
Helena Nagagata is a musician, composer, and multi-instrumentalist with Shamangra. She has also played with Luis Mariutti, Aquiles Priester, Hugo Mariutti, and Thiago Bianchi. Helena has also been featured three times in the American magazine Guitar World , with special mention in a list of "30 Guitar Heroines".
She was also part of the extreme metal band, Sinaya , in addition to participating in various projects of different musical genres, from instrumental progressive to Brazilian music and jazz.