WOMAD

Los Chinches

From Peru, United Kingdom

Cumbia-flavoured psychedelia with a London accent
Over the years, London Town's been a haven to ex-pat musicians from South America, whether Brazilian icons like Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso or more modest melody-makers like Uruguayan outfit Negrocan and Colombian bandleader Roberto Pla. Los Chinches represent this part of this tradition's latest incarnation. An eight-piece consisting of some fantastically monikered individuals (Wasabi, El Freako, Elvis…), Los Chinches are devoted to chicha music, the psychedelic rock'n'roll sound that rocked Lima in the '60s and '70s. They make an irresistible racket - one that's groovy, playful and speaks with a discernible Latin accent. While plenty goes into the Los Chinches blender (there are also nods to both surf music and funk), what emerges is a heady concoction with plenty of senses-altering properties. It's only fitting that it has this effect - chicha music takes its name from a potent Andean brew. Pour yourself a generous measure.

(Biography written by Nige Tassell 2010)

Los Chinches

Los Chinches's Latest Twitter Posts

Los Chinches's » Myspace Page