Episode 023: Twenty-Three Leaves Fell for Fall: Selections from Central and South America

Almendra - A Estos Hombres Tristes (Argentina 1969) Hailing from the Buenos Aires, Almendra were one of the most important bands of the time, releasing two albums that would cement their place as the band that revolutionized Argentinian rock. This epic piece comes from their fantastic debut album from 1969. The group followed up with a double album in 1970 before splitting up and leaving the members to pursue various musical ventures through the 70’s.

Arco Iris - Tiempo (Argentina 1969) Fusing together more musical styles than most of their contemporaries, Buenos Aires based Arco Iris started out as a folk-rock outfit before branching out into more adventurous territory, as heard on this sprawling number. The band continued to evolve, eventually moving to the States and pursuing a more new age tinged sound in the late 70’s.

Los Kiriaps - El Viaje (El Salvador 1969) Though not as widely documented, El Salvador had a rock scene just as vibrant as its neighboring countries. Los Kiriaps, from the Luz de San Salvador neighborhood, were one of the premier bands of the time that left behind a flawless three single discography. This fuzz-laden scorcher shows a heavy psychedelic influence with its delayed vocal freak out sections and backwards drums.

Los Walkers - Dónde Está Miss Lee Los Sabados (Argentina 1968) “The Beatles of Argentina” in more ways than one, in that they wear the Fab Four influence proudly on their sleeves and were one of the most popular bands in the country at the time. This pop-psych masterpiece is taken from their Sgt. Pepper-esque “Walking Up con Los Walkers” album that is sung primarily in English. The band continued to release single until their breakup in 1970.

The Shakers - Only In Your Eyes (Uruguay 1966) The Beatles influence is evident with this band as well, who were also Uruguay’s most popular export at the time - so much so that the album this song is taken from actually saw an American release! Los Shakers were founded by the Fattoruso brothers, inspired to take to the stage after watching A Hard Day’s Night. After four albums the band disbanded once their new psychedelic sound fell on deaf ears at their label.

Los Gatos - Eres Un Hada Al Fin (Argentina 1968) Formed from the ashes of Los Gatos Salvajes, this band from the Rosario area scored a huge hit in 1967, kicking off a five album run that features some of the finest pop and psychedelia from South America. This organ led groover is taken from their third album Seremos Amigos. After releasing their last and most progressive album in 1970, the band called it a day.

Feo - Ella es Adorable (El Salvador 1973) A mystery band from El Salvador that released only two singles in 1973.

We All Together - Soy Timido (Peru 1973) Peru had one of the most active rock scenes and We All Together were more than happy to occupy the Beatles-esque pop lane, more specifically the sticky pop that McCartney produced during his early solo years. After two solid albums and a handful of singles, the band broke up after only two short years.