La Mecanica Popular: Psychedelic Salsa, Brooklyn Style

January 6, 2014 by Howard B. Leibowitz

la mechanica When thinking of salsa music, Brooklyn may not be the first place that comes to mind. But Efrain Rozas wanted to help change that equation when he came to Williamsburg from Lima, Peru to work on his PhD in music at New York University. The rich cultural incubator of the NYU Music Department was how Efrain met the other band members and came up with an exciting new musical genre that he terms “Psychedelic Salsa.” This new and vibrant salsa sound has already earned La Mecanica Popular accolades at live appearances and a growing fan base. Their self-titled debut album has just been released on Brooklyn-based record label, Names You Can Trust, with tracks that include La Paz Del Freak,Ella Le Deci and Arbol.

Efrain Rozas told Brooklyn Roads that “Lima is a very interesting city, because it’s really cosmopolitan and you can hear a lot of music.” The local musical menu there includes classical and rock, as well as the indigenous music of Peru, a land where over 13 different languages are spoken, contributing to “a complex cultural configuration, with musical consequences.” Efrain’s parents were open to everything musically, so classical, salsa and folkloric music were all played in his house and he credits that openness with helping to instill his appreciation for just about every type of music in the sound spectrum. Peruvian Cumbia music and its tropical rhythms helped La Mecanica Popular create this new salsa music genre that is growing in popularity.

La Mecanica Popular have been performing at Brooklyn venues Barbés and Sycamore Bar, as well as Manhattan hot spots Lit Lounge, Arlene’s Grocery, The Shrine and NuBlu. A stripped down, four-piece version of the group gave an intimate preview of their album at Sycamore Bar, which showcased the group’s considerable musical prowess. Efrain played keyboards and vocals, with Ismael Baiz handling percussion and drums, while Alejandro Haaker played bass and Joy Hanson provided rapturous vocals.

If you think salsa is not your musical cup of tea, one taste of La Mecanica Popular’s Psychedelic Salsa will expand your musical palate and have you wanting more. Whether you’re a music lover from Brooklyn or beyond, you’ll be patting yourself on the back for exploring musical vistas that you’ll want to share with your friends.

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Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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