Ritmistas Tropa Trovão

For Chrissy, Brazilian samba was love at first sight — a passion that has grown over decades. With a background in classical piano and drum kit, Brazilian percussion continues to inspire her through its richness and endless musical possibilities. 

Playing in Império da Rainha’s bateria is both an honour and a joy, combining high musical standards with a welcoming, open-hearted community she proudly calls home. She joined the bateria on its very first day, drawn by the balance between musical drive and genuine community — uma comunidade de verdade. Together, the group celebrated a major milestone by winning Carnival 2025. 

Having lived and travelled extensively in South America, Chrissy now explores Europe in her 1981 T3 campervan, enjoying nature, cooking, painting, and music. Whether with the Tropa Trovão or among friends, her message is simple: be kind, be kind, be kind — and play more samba.

For Lucio, Brazilian samba reflects society itself — everyone has a different role, and together those roles create something powerful. In the bateria, each instrument contributes its own voice, coming together as one to create unique experiences for both the group and the audience.

He has been part of Império da Rainha since the very beginning, where he found something special: friends who share the same deep love for the timbau.

Percussion has been central to Lucio’s life since the age of 12, rooted in his fascination with West African traditional music.

After a trip to Brazil in 2016, samba became his true musical home, leading him to connect with Tropa Trovão and further deepen his passion.

His message to the world is simple and profound: play music and believe in people — without these, nothing can evolve.

Keryl “KK” Brown

For KK, Brazilian samba embodies connection, alegria, history, and spirituality.

When the bateria truly comes together, she feels an unexplainable depth of soul, movement, and shared energy that pulls everyone into the same rhythm, reminiscent of the vibrant spirit of Império da Rainha.

She joined Tropa Trovão in February 2024, drawn by the powerful connection created through drumming and the collective energy that defines this incredible group.

Outside the bateria, KK enjoys Criss Cross puzzle books, going to the gym, watching TV series, and taking care of her locs.

Her message to the world is simple: don’t be too hard on yourself — live with good vibes, positive energy, and passion.

Ioanna “Io” Marathefti

For Io, Brazilian samba embodies history, resilience, playfulness, celebration, protest, and spirituality.

The bateria is the collective groove — its breath and heartbeat — balancing discipline with freedom and connecting past, present, and future.

She joined Tropa Trovão in February 2024 and contributed to the timbau section, where rhythm and connection come together.

Beyond music, Io is passionate about graffiti, visual arts, and building drums and bikes, and has a soft spot for penguins, dogs, and cats.

Her message to the world is simple and poetic: hold the beat so others can dance, echoing the spirit of Império da Rainha.

More exciting updates on Brazilian samba and performances from Império da Rainha and Tropa Trovão are coming soon...

More exciting updates on Brazilian samba and performances from Império da Rainha and Tropa Trovão are coming soon...