Search - Los Pericos :: Yerbabuena

Great Spanish reggae

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 11/13/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"From 1996 comes this little gem of Rocnespanol via that hotbed of music, Argentina. Los Pericos, like many of their contemporaries create a sound that is a mix of various genres including a heavy dose of reggae, salsa, tango, ska, r&b and rock. This band is very melodic in their presentaion under the vocal stylings of Bahiano who has a voice that soothes the soul. Case in point would be the monster international hit "Boulevard." This song has a feeling that transcends decades bouncing from contemporary to old school. The chorus counterpoint with a ragga-muffin- style -rap adds a dimension and texture to the song that makes it even more catchy . These guys are surprising in their ability to create that transition from Spanish to English language on the same disc or for that matter within the same song. Take for example the remake of the Brian Wilson penned song for his Beach boys, "In My Room." The song begins with the familiar guitar intro, much like the original but suddenly there is a toasting reggae beat added and the departure begins. Using the technique employed by reggae greats from the 70's of using a pop song and changing it to a reggae beat, the song is recreated but maintains the original integrity. The harmonious vocals would probably make the Beach Boys smile who were also known for their vocals. The addition of horns and the occasional picking up the beat and Spanish vocals creates a great song. This song , reggae artist Ken Boothe's "Why Baby Why" which is sung in Spanish and "Salmo a Bob Marley" by Joseph Hill are the only songs not penned by Los Pericos. "Caliente" is clearly a song that is as it's title suggests, hot, as lots of percussion is banging out a wicked beat complimented by some vocals by Bahiano where he uses a deeper toned voice for a different but still pleasing effect. "Fiesta en las Calles" is a happy upbeat song, much like the rest of the disc, that is a joyous celebration or as the title implies , 'Party in the Streets." "Salmo a Bob Marley" is great little tribute song employing at times English lyrics from "One Woman No Cry," "So Much Trouble" and the anthem "Get Up Stand Up." "No Me Pares" is a super hyper song where you can do your best skanking moves to; it is a totally fun song that accelerates to a climax that will leave you wanting more. One of the closing tracks, "Besame" employs a dreamy quality for a romantic ending that is like a finale slow dance last number at a dance hall; the song is a fitting ending that showcases the softer side and quality voacals of Los Pericos. This group is one of the best examples, if not the best, of Spanish reggae and is definitely recommended."

Chido chido machin

Jairo | Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico | 10/21/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Imprescindible en su discoteca personal. Disco clasico que aparece cada determinado tiempo. Toda una avalancha de ritmos y alegrías. Este y el de Yahir (alucinado, son hitos en la historia de la musica) ey oo veras. No, ya en serio fuera de el ultimos dos renglones todo es verdad.
Es un disco que ayuda a vivir feliz."