One of Brazil's key alt-rock bands, Nação Zumbi featured lead vocalist Chico Science (1966-1997) (originally Chico Science & Nação Zumbi), a veteran of Pernambuco's hip-hop and rock scenes who helped pioneer the manguebeat sound. After Science's untimely death in a 1997 auto accident, the role of lead singer was taken over by artist, and the band has continued.