The Taras e Montenegro are remembered as one of those groups that were known for a single hit, a true icon of Portuguese light music. “O Autocarro do Amor” (The Bus of Love) is considered by many to be the first “pimba” record of Portuguese popular music, a theme that, even after more than 40 years since its recording, continues to be contagious and exudes youthful energy.
For those in their 40s or 50s, listening to this theme again is like revisiting memories of garage parties, popular saints’ festivals, and village dances, where music was played over loudspeakers or by live bands. It’s no surprise that one of the members who was part of Taras e Montenegro is still active in parties and events, such as Quim Barreiros, a musician with a long career in light music with popular roots.
The only EP released by the group included four tracks, of which only “Vous Permetez Monsieur” was not original, being a version of a theme by Salvatore Adamo, composed in 1966. Even with a limited discography, the impact of “O Autocarro do Amor” was enough to leave a lasting mark on Portuguese music.
