The line-up for Unísono this year is almost unbelievably rich – one of the most varied samplings of Latino music that one could hope for in one day, with local and visiting artists of extraordinary artist showcasing at Pilsen’s Zocalo.
Here’s just a few samples to whet your appetite!
TARIMA SON
Local favorites and pioneers in the city’s Jarochicago movement, Tarima Son presents a wide variety of sones from all over Mexico, and features the talented violinist Irekani Ferreyra accompanied on vocals and zapateado by his lovely and equally talented wife Anabel.
BANDA POTRILLOS
Also from the Chi, Banda Potrillos exemplifies the best of the vibrant and raucous a genre of “banda” which emerged in the 19th century in Mexico in fusions by musicians who incorporated the instruments and rhythms of German ex-pats and French military bands. Put aside any preconceived notions about the hats, buckles and boots, and just enjoy – it’s all a bit over the top, and irresistibly euphoric.
LOS RAKAS
It’s always a treat to receive a visit from these two cousins, a dynamic duo who infuse their rimas with both Panama’s Jamaican-tinged mixes and Oakland’s DJ and rap culture, as they proudly share the street culture of their native land exemplified by “chancletas and camisetas bordadas”. (In case you’re wondering, Raka Dun is wearing the latter in the video)
PACHA MASSIVE and MONICA LIONHEART
Based in the Bronx, Pacha Massive was created by Dominican producer, keyboardist, programmer and guitarist Nova and takes its name from Mother Earth, i.e., Pacha Mama. The beautiful Nuyorican Monica Lionheart, the live voice of Pacha Massive, will also showcase her delicately electronic pop-rock compositions earlier in the day.
CECI BASTIDA
Tijuana’s ex-punk indie songstress will bring her intelligently crafted and socially conscious rock ballads to the Zocalo, tunes that comment on topics from the drug-wars in her hometown to the Latinidad of her new hometown, Los Angeles.
THE AFTER PARTY
And don’t forget the after party! One of the DJ/Producers most instrumental in introducing the cumbia to the international club scene, Monterrey, Nuevo León’s Toy Selectah will be tag-mixing the beats along with San Antonio, Texas’ Ernest Gonzales, aka Mexicans With Guns, in a set titled “Gun Selectah”.
TOY SELECTAH
MEXICANS WITH GUNS
Unísono takes place at the Zocalo August 18 from 11AM on, and the after-party will stay in Pilsen at Lacuna Artists Lofts.