For those not familiar with the sights and sounds of Tropa Magica, just imagine if the ghosts of Jim Morrison and Kurt Cobain spiked the mariachi band’s cerveza with top-notch LSD at a quinceañera. Tropa Magica gives the listener a perfectly crafted combination of Peruvian cumbia guitar rhythms with 1990s grunge and a psychedelic twist—plus, “a dash of 1980s sitcom dad jokes thrown in,” says David Pacheco, the band’s guitarist and lead vocalist.
Hailing from Southern California’s “East Los” region—aka, East Los Angeles—Tropa Magica was formed in 2018 by David and his brother Rene Pacheco (on drums and percussion). Christian Vazquez, on bass and backing vocals, has been touring and playing with the Pacheco brothers for the past two years.
Tropa Magica’s signature sonic style best comes out in tracks like “LSD Roma,” “Disco Queen” and “Ven Como Eres,” which is a surreal and refreshing take on Nirvana’s “Come as You Are.” With five albums under their belt and a fortified touring schedule that seems neverending, Tropa Magica has proven to be fairly prolific and unstoppable—not what one may expect from a group of guys known for their laidback vibe and aesthetic.
With its black velvet painting collection, low purple lighting, red walls and mirrored ball, Oakland’s Thee Stork Club is just about the most perfect setting and backdrop to be able to see Tropa Magica perform live, making their Bay Area stop on Wednesday, May 28, as part of their Para Bailar Y Triplar Tour.
“The reception is great in the East Bay,” says David. “We’re hoping it’s even better this time around—it’s been two years since we’ve played there.”
Tropa Magica plays Thee Stork Club on Wednesday, May 28, 8pm; 2330 Telegraph Ave.; 510. 859.8709; theestorkclub.com. With Mala Greña.
