Aterciopelados

Aterciopelados

 

By Rayme Samuels

After making music for the last 15 years, one would think that Colombian roots rockers Aterciopelados would have nothing new to say. But nothing could be further from the truth. Ever evolving, these masters of fusion and staunch social activists will perform with Curumin on Friday, April 17th as part of the Heineken TransAtlantic Music Festival.

With 8 albums and a few Latin Grammy’s under their belts, band mates Andrea Echeverri (vocals/guitar) and Hector Buitrago (bass/arrangements) are all about using their music to send messages about things like nature, the role of women in society, war, and politics. Their work with Amnesty International and in addressing the displacement of native peoples in Colombia proves that this group is dedicated to making changes.

They are coming stateside to promote their latest compilation, “Rio”, an album full of the indigenous sounds of the Andes Mountains full of flutes, charangos and a strong message about the human right to access to clean water. Mixing traditional roots rhythms from Colombia with influences from America, India, and Latin America, Aterciopelados are pros at creating unique recipes of sound.  “Every time we write an album we try to find a different approach to the production. We try to write different songs even though the topics are the same,” explained singer Echeverri.

Aterciopelados are no strangers to the North Beach Bandshell. Playing there a few years ago, they have fond memories of performing under the stars for an audience they described as being como familia, “like family” in English. Why you should check out their show? Echeverri explains, “Because there will be harmony and joy that night.”