The Táxi Journey: Portugal's Rocking Ride

As a seasoned observer of the UK's bustling taxi scene, I've always been fascinated by journeys – not just the ones across the city, but the metaphorical ones too. And what an intriguing journey the Portuguese rock band 'Táxi' has embarked upon. Their name itself, 'Táxi', evokes movement, destinations, and a sense of enduring presence, much like the black cabs that are a staple of our British streets. This article isn't about the mechanics of a meter or the quickest route to Heathrow; it's about a different kind of journey – the remarkable trajectory of a band that has become a cornerstone of Portuguese rock history, and how their story, much like a long taxi ride, is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected delights.

Originating from Porto, 'Táxi' burst onto the scene in the early 1980s, a period famously known as the 'boom' of Portuguese rock. They weren't just another band; they were trailblazers, achieving the first gold record for Portuguese rock. Their early success was propelled by iconic tracks like 'Chiclete', 'Vida de Cão', and 'Cairo', tunes that resonated across the nation, selling thousands upon thousands of records. This initial ascent was nothing short of meteoric, establishing them as a household name and cementing their place in the annals of their country's music. The original line-up, a tight-knit unit, comprised João Grande on vocals, Henrique Oliveira on guitar, Rodrigo Freitas on drums, and Rui Taborda on bass. This quartet, though minimal in its instrumental setup, was exceptionally talented, laying down the foundations for their distinctive sound.

Navigating the Bumpy Roads: Hiatus and Reunions

Like many journeys, 'Táxi's' path wasn't always smooth. The band eventually went their separate ways at the end of the 1980s, leading to a hiatus that stretched for over a decade. However, the allure of their music and the bond between the musicians proved strong enough to pull them back together. Over the years, there were several reunions involving the original members. This period of ebb and flow speaks volumes about their resilience and the enduring appeal of their music. The decision to reunite, however, wasn't without its own set of challenges, particularly concerning the band's name. A significant legal dispute arose when a new formation, featuring only two original members – João Grande and Rui Taborda – continued to use the 'Táxi' name without the consent of the others. This kind of internal turbulence is not uncommon in long-running creative ventures, but 'Táxi' weathered the storm, proving their determination to keep their musical journey alive.

The Resurgence: A New Route Forward

Having successfully navigated the legal imbroglio, the 'new' (and yet, still very much 'old') 'Táxi' has emerged more active than ever. 2023 was a testament to their revitalised energy, seeing them perform dozens of concerts across Portugal. This renewed vigour isn't just about revisiting past glories; it's about charting a new course. For 2024, their itinerary is packed with exciting stops. A significant date on their calendar was January 12th, with a performance at Casino Estoril, where tickets were still available between €25 and €30 – a clear indication of their continued drawing power. Another highly anticipated stop is their debut at the prestigious Casa da Música in Porto, scheduled for March 13th. Beyond their domestic routes, 'Táxi' is also planning a mini-tour in Mozambique, expanding their reach and connecting with audiences further afield. This international ambition truly highlights their commitment to their craft and their desire to share their music globally, much like a taxi service expanding its coverage.

The Creative Journey: Crafting New Soundscapes

At the heart of 'Táxi's' current journey is the creation of new music. Vocalist João Grande shared insights into their primary objective for 2024: the release of a new album. This project, which has been in the works for some time, is a collaborative effort between João and Rui Taborda, the two original members. They acknowledge the long delay in its release, but the anticipation is palpable. Three singles have already been released, giving fans a taste of what's to come. The band's live shows are described as a 'great party', a reflection of their genuine enjoyment and the seamless collaboration within the new lineup. João Grande enthusiastically praises the current musicians, highlighting the addition of two 'absolutely phenomenal' guitarists, an 'incredible' drummer, and Rui Taborda, whom he considers one of Portugal's best bassists and a talented producer responsible for their music videos and mixing. The current setup, with two guitars, fills a void that was sometimes felt in the original, more stripped-down formation, allowing for a fuller, more energetic, and compact sound.

The band masterfully balances their extensive catalogue of classics with their new material, ensuring that each concert offers a fresh experience. João Grande notes that they never take their audience for granted, understanding that each crowd is different. This adaptability is key to their continued success, allowing them to connect with diverse audiences, whether they are performing in a packed arena or a small, intimate venue. The spontaneity of live performance, and the interaction with the audience, remains a profound source of enjoyment for them.

The Live Experience: From Grand Stages to Intimate Venues

With decades of experience under their belts, 'Táxi' has graced countless stages, from the smallest villages to the grandest halls, traversing the entire country multiple times and performing abroad. Yet, the joy of interpreting their classic songs remains undiminished. João Grande expresses immense love for what he does, describing the experience of thousands of people singing along to their songs as something one 'never tires of'. This pure passion is the fuel that keeps their engine running. He recalls a recent performance at 'Rock Of', a small venue near Cantanhede, which despite its size, felt like an 'English club' with thousands of people and an 'absolutely incredible' atmosphere. Another memorable gig at Sons de Vez in Arcos de Valdevez saw the front row literally on stage, fostering a unique and intimate interaction that João cherishes. These varied experiences highlight the dynamism of their live shows, proving that the magic of 'Táxi' transcends the size of the venue. The well-oiled machine of their team, from long-standing technicians to the current musicians, further contributes to their smooth operation on the road.

The Modern Road: Navigating the Music Industry's Shifting Landscape

In a rapidly evolving music landscape, 'Táxi' holds a pragmatic view. João Grande acknowledges that rock music, as they know and love it, is 'practically on the verge of extinction'. He observes that much of today's music is a reinvention of older styles, with true innovation often stemming from major societal upheavals. He laments the shift towards more solitary music creation, often by individuals working in their bedrooms with computers, moving away from the collaborative band format. For João, the camaraderie of five people in a room, creating music, laughing, and even debating, is unparalleled – a 'fantastic connection' that is increasingly rare. He believes that partnership is where the most important things are born, not just in music but in all areas of life. Despite this, he holds no criticism for solo artists, even expressing admiration for artists like Billie Eilish, whose incredible sound surprised him when he learned it was recorded in a bedroom. This open-mindedness allows 'Táxi' to adapt while staying true to their core values.

One area of frustration for João, however, is the state of radio. He notes the dominance of a few major stations in Portugal that tend to shy away from rock music with prominent drums or guitars. Fortunately, 'Táxi' is in a position where, even without extensive radio play, they consistently draw thousands to their concerts. This mirrors the experience of international artists like Bryan Adams, who, despite reduced radio presence, continues to fill venues. João acknowledges the shift in how people consume music, embracing streaming platforms like Spotify, which he views as a 'dream' compared to the limited access of his youth, despite the ongoing debates about artist compensation. For him, music is as essential as breathing, intertwined with love, travel, photography, and literature. He's a self-professed 'walking encyclopedia' when it comes to music knowledge.

João Grande's Personal Journey and the Band's Enduring Legacy

João Grande's own path to becoming a vocalist for a legendary band wasn't straightforward. He initially started as a guitarist, investing considerable time in it, but quickly realised it wasn't his forte. His journey began much earlier, in the 1970s, with a band called 'Pesquisa', performing covers of complex songs by Genesis, Pink Floyd, and The Police. This period of intense daily rehearsals honed their skills to a very high level. It was this rigorous training that prepared them for what was to come. In 1979, with a refined lineup, they began composing their own music and changed their name to 'Táxi'. Their big break came when Polygram representatives saw them perform, leading to a record deal. João recalls an unwavering confidence in their potential, a conviction that the record label that signed them would 'make a fortune'. And indeed, they did, playing a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of Portuguese music. This unforgettable period of their lives was nothing short of surreal.

Maintaining relevance is a constant challenge for any long-standing act, but 'Táxi' thrives on it. João speaks with immense pride about seeing teenagers in the front rows of their concerts, knowing their lyrics by heart – a testament to the band's ability to transcend generations, largely thanks to streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube. This intergenerational appeal is their lifeblood, their 'oxygen'. They actively strive to reintroduce themselves to new audiences, even though many older fans might assume they've stopped playing. João often playfully challenges this misconception, highlighting their incredibly active touring schedule. He understands that for many, 'Táxi' represents a happier, unburdened time in their lives, and the band embraces the responsibility of delivering a performance that allows fans to reclaim that lost joy.

Future Destinations: A Global Route

Looking ahead, João Grande feels he's in one of the best periods of his life, both musically and personally. The primary goal remains the release of their new album, which currently boasts over 20 finished tracks. The challenge now lies in selecting the final 12 songs and deciding on the optimal release timing, perhaps between March and April, or later in October. While a title and cover are yet to be finalised, the focus remains squarely on the music itself. The songwriting process has been exclusive to João and Rui, though they aspire to involve the newer members more in future compositions, fostering a collective ownership of the band's work. Their new music, particularly the single 'Nunca Mais', is described as more rock-oriented, energetic, and faster, reflecting a conscious effort to bring 'Táxi' into the 21st century, without abandoning their core influences. The two guitars, in particular, contribute to a more contemporary, full, and compact sound.

Beyond the album, the band's sights are set on new territories. The upcoming mini-tour in Mozambique is particularly exciting for João, as it marks his first visit to Africa. They've previously played in various European countries and the United States, primarily for Portuguese emigrants, but the ambition now is to reach new audiences who know and appreciate their music. The journey continues, with the overarching aim to keep performing and enjoying what they do for as long as possible. The 'Táxi' ride is far from over.

Frequently Asked Questions About 'Táxi'

Q: Who is the current vocalist of 'Táxi'?
A: The current vocalist of 'Táxi' is João Grande, who has been with the band since its original formation.

Q: Who were the original members of 'Táxi'?
A: The original members of 'Táxi' were João Grande (vocals), Henrique Oliveira (guitar), Rodrigo Freitas (drums), and Rui Taborda (bass).

Q: What is 'Táxi's' main goal for 2024?
A: Their main goal for 2024 is the release of their new album, which they have been preparing for some time.

Q: How does 'Táxi' balance their classic hits with new songs in their live shows?
A: 'Táxi' carefully balances their classic repertoire with new themes, ensuring that audiences can always expect different songs and experiences at their concerts.

Q: Have 'Táxi' experienced legal issues regarding their name?
A: Yes, 'Táxi' faced a judicial process when a new formation, with only two original members (João Grande and Rui Taborda), continued to use the group's name without the consent of the other original members.

Q: What are 'Táxi's' thoughts on the modern music industry, especially radio and streaming?
A: João Grande believes that traditional rock music is becoming rarer, and while he laments the decline of the band format and some radio stations' reluctance to play rock, he embraces streaming platforms like Spotify for their accessibility, despite acknowledging concerns about artist compensation.

Q: What is the significance of the name 'Táxi' for the band?
A: While the article frames it metaphorically, the band's name 'Táxi' evokes a sense of journey, movement, and an enduring presence, much like the vehicles it shares its name with.

The Táxi Formation: Then vs. Now

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