🌎Tour Talk: The Missing Lineup of FEP 2024
Exploring Hidden Talent That Should've Shined on Stage
In the midst of the anticipation surrounding the return of the Festival Estéreo Picnic (FEP) to Bogotá, there's been a shuffle in the lineup that's caught the attention of music enthusiasts far and wide. Originally set to showcase a stellar array of talent, the event has faced its share of setbacks as several prominent artists have found themselves unable to attend. From Paramore's contractual disputes with their record label, to the unforeseen absence of Rina Sawayama, Jaden, and Dove Cameron, the festival has encountered unexpected hurdles in the past couple of weeks. While the reasons behind these cancellations remain veiled in mystery, the show must go on, and FEP has swiftly recalibrated, welcoming new additions like The Vaccines, Leisure, and Saiko to join the ranks of Blink-182, Feid, SZA, and others.
As the city prepares to host this musical extravaganza in the vibrant setting of Parque Simón BolÃvar, the spotlight now shifts to the unseen stars poised to shine on stage. As the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining, and these setbacks present an opportunity to explore the realm of musical possibilities. While the festival may have lost some marquee names, it opens the door to envisioning dream additions that could elevate FEP 2024 to new heights, of which there’s a missing slot that still remains to be announced in the coming days.
Join in as we venture into a realm of musical reverie, where we spotlight a handful of fantasy picks that would undoubtedly enhance the festival experience. Here are some artists from the current music scene who will be roaming Latin-American territories soon, and though absent from the official roster, would undoubtedly infuse the festival with their electrifying presence and rich sounds:
Rubio
Rubio is the stage name of Fran Straube, a Chilean singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her unique blend of electronic pop, folk, and experimental sounds. Born in Santiago, Chile, Straube began her musical career as a member of the indie pop band Miss Garrison before embarking on her solo project as Rubio. Her music often features dreamy melodies, ethereal vocals, and intricate production, creating a captivating sonic landscape that explores themes of identity, love, and introspection. Straube's debut album Pequeñas ProfecÃas was released in 2019 to critical acclaim, showcasing her innovative approach to songwriting and production. Since then, she has continued to garner attention both in Chile and internationally for her mesmerizing live performances and boundary-pushing musical style.
Rubio's show at the Festival Isle of Light in Santo Domingo promises to be a highlight for fans of her genre-bending music.
Roosevelt
Roosevelt's tour in Mexico, and anticipated performance at the Festival Isle of Light in Santo Domingo on March 9th are poised to be a standout moment for attendees. Known for his infectious blend of synthpop and electronic beats, Roosevelt brings a dynamic energy to the stage that is sure to get the crowd moving. With his sleek production, catchy hooks, and undeniable charisma, the project promises to deliver a set that will leave audiences buzzing long after the festival ends.
Men I Trust
With their signature blend of dreamy melodies and catchy grooves, Men I Trust promises an enchanting musical journey that transports audiences to realms of tranquility and introspection. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in their enthralling performances in Mexico, as well as festivals like Isle of Light in Santo Domingo, and other venues throughout the region.
The influence of bands like Men I Trust extends far beyond their captivating melodies and lo-fi soundscapes. Across Colombia, Latin America, and beyond, a new generation of musicians draws inspiration from their groundbreaking music. With their distinct blend of chillwave, synth-pop, and indie rock, they have carved out a unique sonic identity that resonates deeply with contemporary artists. Their experimental approach to music production, coupled with their infectious rhythms and emotive lyrics, has left an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
It's definitely an interesting trend to observe how the live performances of chillwave-synthfunk artists such as Roosevelt and Men I Trust are gaining massive traction in Mexico and the Caribbean. The incorporation of bands like Leisure at the FEP, also shows that the appeal of this 80s synth sound revival is gathering growing numbers of accolades in Colombia and elsewhere.
Fuerza Regida
Fuerza Regida has emerged as a dynamic force in the Latin-American music scene, captivating audiences with their electrifying blend of corridos tumbados, and all the elements of the blossoming regional Mexican music scene. Hailing from Sinaloa, Mexico, Fuerza Regida infuses traditional Mexican music with a contemporary urban energy, creating a fresh and exhilarating sound that resonates with listeners across generations. With their raw and unapologetic lyrics, Fuerza Regida delves into themes of love, loss, and life in the streets, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of their experiences. Their high-energy performances and contagious rhythms have propelled them to the forefront of the regional Mexican music scene, earning them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As they continue to push boundaries and defy conventions, Fuerza Regida remains a driving force in shaping the future of Mexican music.
Other artists to keep an eye on this season:
CLUBZ
Orlando Fernández and Coco Santos, the masterminds behind Clubz, originated the project in Monterrey, Nuevo León, México, in 2013. Pioneering a nostalgic 80s and 90s vibe, they've gained international recognition for their innovative and authentic sound. With accolades like Best Pop Album & Best New Artist at IMAS Awards 2015, Clubz has elevated the alternative Latin music scene with great albums like Texturas and EPs like Épocas. Their evolution is evident in the soulful funky singles, which set a perfect stage for their 2018 hit album Destellos. Clubz continues to put out synthwave gems consistently, and by effect influencing the alternative pop music scene in Latin America, and globally.
Chicano Batman
Chicano Batman is a Los Angeles-based band known for their distinctive blend of various musical genres, including soul, funk, psychedelic rock, and Latin American music influences. The band members include Eduardo Arenas (bass, vocals), Carlos Arévalo (guitar), Gabriel Villa (drums), and Bardo Martinez (lead vocals, keyboard, guitar).
Formed in 2008, Chicano Batman has gained recognition for their socially conscious lyrics, infectious grooves, and captivating live performances. They often incorporate themes of social justice, identity, and cultural pride into their music, reflecting their roots in the Chicano culture of Los Angeles.
Their sound has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, with their albums receiving praise from music critics and audiences alike. Their music has been featured in various television shows, films, and commercials, further expanding their reach and influence. They have also toured extensively, performing at major music festivals and venues across the United States and internationally.
As we gear up for the Festival Estéreo Picnic (FEP) and its varied lineup, it’s good to keep the discussion flowing, and showcase artists who won't be present this time around. While their absence may shift the dynamic, it also opens the door to explore the vibrant world of music beyond the official roster. From the dreamy sounds of Roosevelt to the infectious grooves of Chicano Batman, these unseen stars remind us that the journey of musical discovery is an ongoing adventure.
For the time being, thank you for reading, and stay tuned to the radar in the coming days, as we dig in deeper into days 2-4 of the event.
Until next time, keep the rhythm alive!
Marco Pisciotti
Music enthusiast & content creator
Villa de Leyva, Colombia. March 10th, 2024.