Maldita Vecindad y Los Hijos del Quinto Patio und Maldita Vecindad

Kinky first came together in 2000, featuring Gilberto Cerezo (vocals/guitar), Ulises Lozano (keyboardist/programmer), Carlos Chairez (guitar), Omar Gongaro (drums) and Cesar Pliego (bassist). The band then set to work developing their live sound, preparing for the annual battle of the bands at the Latin Alternative Music Conference in New York City, US. Kinky impressed, garnering the attention of British producer Chris Allison, who had previously worked with Coldplay, Fila Brazillia and the Wedding Present amongst many others. Allison offered to produce and release their debut album on his label, Sonic 360.

The end product was their self-titled debut, released in 2002, meeting with critical acclaim. The album’s success was bolstered by their music being featured in a commercial for an advertisement for the Nissan Altima, spreading their sound to new audiences. Kinky then joined an incredible lineup for the ‘Unlimited Sunshine Tour’ in the US, supporting Cake, De La Soul, The Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse, as well as an appearance at Coachella festival.

Their second album, “Atlas,” came out in 2003, moving towards recreating their rockier live sound, limiting their use of electronics. helping to capture their energetic performances which had gained notoriety and positive acclaim. For their third record, they travelled to an isolated cabin in the mountains of Southern California, US, allowing them time to focus on their sound. Guest features included Men at Work’s Colin Hay and Intocable accordionist Ricardo Muñoz. For their fourth record, Kinky teamed up with Money Mark of Beastie Boys fame to co-produce the album, “Barracuda” in 2008. Their fifth album, “Sueño de la Maquina” brought in John King of the Dust Brothers for the production and mixing process, released in 2012.