Exclusive Entrevista: Bomba Estéreo

If you play with fire you will get burnt...

Bomba Estéreo knows the metaphorical phrase quite well. The Colombian trio is responsible for sparking an electro vacilón that rising from the ashes of la costa and blends reggae, pop, and cumbia into a psychedelic reincarnation. Whether you are thirstin' for a painful rebirth or a smooth escape, listen to their latest track "Fuego" and you will be pleasantly lifted into an alternate state-of-mind. Don't trip. The eclectic group also sings about social and political issues that tend to skip the nightly news headlines.

We got a chance to chat with lead singer Li Saumet and bassist Simon Mejía after their performance at SXSW to find out more about their musical style and what they have in the works right below the hood!

People are still talking about your performance at SXSW. How was the experience for you?

Simon: Well, it was a very memorable experience because it took us completely by surprise. I don't think we knew what to expect before we got there. It was great to see how many people came out and it was awesome to get to meet our Colombian fans. The energy was very positive. Everyone just connected to the music.

Li: It was super enriching. It is one of the most important festivals to be a part of as an indie artist. We learned so much from the experience because it was the first time we played in the U.S. It gave us a chance to meet our fans and play in an intimate setting. Very enriching.

Do you have a favorite fan moment from the festival?

Li: Yes, there was a moment when we were on stage playing and everybody was super arriba. That is always my favorite part. We also just got to hang out with people in the street so that was also cool. Just meeting new bands and people was fun.

Simon: There were a couple of Colombian and Norwegian bands that we had a blast with too.

Your new album "Bomba Estéreo Estalla: Volume 2" has received lots of buzz. What kind of message of Colombia do you hope to create in it?

Li: Claro, we want contemporary Colombian music to be played around the world. We want to create fun music that everyone can listen to using traditional Colombian sounds mix with more modern stuff. I wouldn't say we have a set national message, but that is what we are about.

What was the inspiration for your single "Fuego"?

Li: We wanted to form a colorful song. It is all about the sun and getting sucked into that world. It's about being in another state-of-mind.

Simon: It's a very energetic and charismatic song. The phrases continue repeating in the song to create a beautiful energy.

We are feelin' it in all of its gloria and belleza. Check out their MySpace and get detalles on recent tour dates and more. Are you tuned into Bomba Estéreo?

Tags Bomba Estereo, Free Music, Latin Music, Musica Latina