As an answer to the dark and mysterious acts frequenting the theatres of Caracas, a group of high school associates make the groundbreaking decision to form the finest (only) Venezuelan dance band. This crew of merry musicians crusade to convince that dance is not only salsa and merengue and that electric guitar is not the same as punk. Henceforth, LOS AMIGOS INVISIBLES begin to defeat Caracas and thus offering their friends a way to party.
For Los Amigos Invisibles – comprising Mauricio Arcas on percussion, Julio Briceño on voz (vocals), Armando Figueredo on the teclados (keyboard), José Luis Pardo on the guitarra (guitar), Juan Manuel Roura on the batería (drums) and José Rafael Torres on the bajo – it has been one hell of a ride. With over 60 countries visited, one Latin Grammy, two Latin Grammy nominations, two Grammy nominations, six studio albums, one live DVD, one record label and with high hopes to continue to do what they love to do, this amazing band certainly have achieved much in over 18 years in the music industry.
On 9 June 2009, their new album Commercial thumped its way into the US, Puerto Rico and Venezuela. Henceforth starting the promotional tour visiting very many places in the US, Mexico and Venezuela. It is only now that Los Amigos Invisibles have kicked up their groove shoes and now plan on gracing Australia with their funky melodies.
One would expect such seasoned musicians to be bored with the endless interview process that is promoting their music, yet guitarist Jose Torres brims with excitement as he talks about his music, Commercial and the ensuing tour. “It is our third time in Australia but our first in places like Sydney and Melbourne and we are very excited. We consider going to Australia more than working. The best part of playing music is getting involved in people and cultures, it’s amazing,” says Torres.
Although being a musician certainly has its perks, Torres most definitely isn’t blind to the downfall of having the life of a travelling troubadour. “If you are afraid of flying you shouldn’t be a musician. It is very hard, travel, especially if you have a family,” he laughs. “And if you have a jealous wife it is hard for them to understand. We in the band are very lucky to have the respect and support of our family and wives.”
Torres talks about other aspects of band life that can prove to be quite difficult. “Creation of songs is easy. It is when we start to argue on vision that it get a little messy. But this is part of the creative process. Discussion and teamwork keeps the team on the same page and once everything is finished everyone is happy again.”
Los Amigos Invisibles shall be taking their fabulous selves to the Canberra Monkey Bar on Friday March 12. Tickets are $20 and are available from the venue.
