Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • 1965-1978

A Bolha is a Brazilian psychedelic and progressive rock band formed in 1965 in Rio de Janeiro—originally known as The Bubbles. Founded by brothers César and Renato Ladeira, the group began by playing covers of European and U.S. rock acts, but by the early '70s they had shifted to original songwriting and started singing in Portuguese.

Their signature lineup—Renato Ladeira (keyboards), Pedro Lima (guitar), Arnaldo Brandão (bass), and Gustavo Schroeter (drums)—solidified in 1968, and soon thereafter the band adopted the new name, A Bolha. In 1971 they released the Sem Nada single, previewing a heavier, more original sound. Their debut LP Um Passo à Frente followed in 1973, blending psychedelic and progressive elements.

They returned in 1977 with their second album, É Proibido Fumar, a punchier, more hard‑rock‑oriented record. The band toured in support, including opening slots and backing Erasmo Carlos, but shortly after the promotion cycle ended in 1978, A Bolha disbanded for the first time. After a long hiatus, the original members reunited in 2004, briefly recording the album É Só Curtir (2006), before ceasing activity again.