Feature photo by Nicolás Carlos
We find ourselves in Austin, Texas, standing next to Roberto Musso of Cuarteto de Nos from Uruguay, when we realize the awe-inspiring global impact of the South by Southwest music festival. With the Sounds of Spain stage right across the street from us, and artists from all over the world walking casually by on their way to the next gig, an interview or lunch, we are beyond thrilled to be a part of this week-long event.
Musso, coming off a well received performance the previous night, is as cheerful and engaging as we’ve been witness to through the band’s many music videos, features and interviews. The showcase his band was a part of, a first of its kind at SXSW, also featured Daniela ‘Tatita’ Marquez, Malena Muyala, Franny Glass, Max Capote, Campo and Martin Buscaglia, some of Uruguay’s most talented artists. Musso is the lead vocalist and guitarist for legendary alternative rock band Cuarteto de Nos whose multiple award-winning albums have provided them with over 20 years of amazing memories.
Cuarteto de Nos formed in Montevideo, Uruguay, in 1984. Many of their albums, over a dozen recorded thus far, have reached gold, platinum and double-/quadruple-platinum status. They are the first band from Uruguay to receive such accolades. Also, after including Juan Campodonico to their project as producer and adding new visual/sound elements, the band has gone on to receive Latin Grammy and Grammy nominations, which adds to their list of firsts. Their 2012 release, Porfiado, won a Latin Grammy for Best Pop/Rock album as well as Best Rock Song for their single, “Cuando seas grande.” The band continues to work with Campodonico, another brilliant mastermind of Uruguayan-influenced hits. Cuarteto de Nos has the distinction of being the first artist from Uruguay to receive a Latin Grammy and Grammy nomination.
Currently, the band continues its successful journey touring in promotion of Porfiado, and we’re hopeful their travels lead them to Chicago soon.