The Brazilian 4-string banjo was first introduced by musician Almir Guineto in the late 1970s and early 1980s, attending on one hand the necessity for a louder instrument similar to the cavaco, and on the other, the drive for innovation.
His records have a particular samba sound that became trademarked as Almir's, frequently with strong use of the banjo, and with Mauro Diniz often being responsible for the cavaquinho.
Back in Brazil, he joined the band of Almir Guineto and later played with Dicró and Pedrinho da Flor.
One of Leci Brandão's latest performances was in 2005 with Raça Brasileira: 20 Anos (DVD: 'Raca Brasileira', rated NR, one hour/2005) with many other Brazilian samba greats (i.e. Beth Carvalho, Arlindo Cruz, Almir Guineto, etc.).
Mauro has recorded with all major samba names; his recordings with Almir Guineto are specially known for cavaquinho rhythm virtuosism; not the least, his recordings with Zeca Pagodinho and Beth Carvalho are registered as the foundation for new generations of sambistas.
Soon after the first record, Almir Guineto and Jorge Aragão left the group to follow solo career, being replaced by Arlindo Cruz and Cléber Augusto.