Search - Maldita Vecindad, Los Hijos del Quinto Patio :: En Vivo Gira Pata De Perro

Intense Mexican adrenalin rush

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 08/27/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"While taking a trip down memory lane recently I was amazed to find this "mini" disc without a review here. Recorded and released about ten years ago this disc captures the high energy and intense vibe put forth by Maldita Vencidad y Los hijos Del Quinto Patio. As one of Mexico's premier bands in the RocnEspanol movement they demonstrate that their unique brand of social political roc has since then been imitated often by others. The band plays a high charged version of ethnic ska, straight ahead hard punk rock that dips into some tasty bluesy music for a Mexican entry into the RocnEspanol market. This disc was recorded in 1993 at the end of a grand world tour that included 21 cities in Mexico, 12 in the USA and 64 concerts in 52 cities of Europe, culminating with this recording from the National Auditorium of Mexico City. Since their material was still rather limited at the time of the recording they chose to only have six songs on the disc. The choice of songs is paramount and basically forms the basis to some of their most recognizable numbers. The fact that they are live versions adds to the vibrant urgency of their music. The disc includes a wailing version of "Pachuco," the song that sings to the hypocrisy of generational differences that hits to the core. Included also is the classic MV song "Pata de Perro" that celebrates the "viajero" or traveller who steps away from the barrio leaving in his trail a ghost of rumors and innuendos of his current existence. Also included is "Mojado"which is a tribute song to all who seek a better life north of the border, leaving behind their roots and loved ones. Naturally " "Un Gran Circo" is sung and played out with tremendous exuberence; the music tells about the drama,suspense, comedy and tradegy that is life in Mexico. Included is a mini booklet with b&w photographs of the crowds and a younger Roco and band members. If you ever get a chance, as I have on numerous occassions, to see them live, please do, as they put on a trmendous show; if not buy this oldie but goodie until they come around again. All of their recordings are good and the double disc that is sort of a greatest hits package is perfect to buy if you are just getting into this excellent band. Although it is short in terms of time(about 35 minutes) it is a super piece of history that is RocnEspanol in it's formative years."