Exclusive Interview with 'LOS INCONFORMES'

With the release of their production titled “IV,” which is currently accessible on all music platforms, Los Inconformes are making a splash in the music industry. The band’s trademark musical fusion of ska, rock, rap, punk, funk, hardcore, and other influences can be heard on the album. Their first single, “Recluso,” featuring La Mio from Piquete, their second, “Cuando te veo,” and their third single, “RRRatas,” all feature this fusion.

The fast-paced, upbeat song “RRRatas” combines various types of styles in the classic Los Inconformes fashion (i.e., ska, punk, rocksteady). It transitions from what could be considered a punk anthem to a fast ska before ending with a more rocksteady feel. always retaining a hint of our latin heritage. Many of our political classes around the world are being criticized socially and politically in the lyrics.

Great bands like Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Desorden Pblico, The Toasters, Voodoo Glow Skulls, and Mephiskapheles have shared the stage with Los Inconformes in the past. They hope to travel to other Latin American nations in the near future as they continue to perform at various events in Puerto Rico. Check out their song “RRRatas” and the exclusive interview below:

1. Can you tell us a bit about where you come from and how it all got started?

LOS INCONFORMES: We all met while attending college in the University of Puerto Rico. First jam session the band was born and it has been an ever changing process since then.

2. Who were your first and strongest musical influences and why the name ‘LOS INCONFORMES’?

LOS INCONFORMES: The name translates to “The Non-Comformist” and there is a dual interpretation in that.

First, musically we all listen and are influenced by different genres, so why conform with only one style? That is why we have a ska base but also have punk, metal, reggae, blues, and latin elements. At this point we are not afraid to experiment with any style of music.

Second, we do not want to conform with politics or society rules that don’t allow for free speech or self expression. To conform would equal a limitation of the spirit.

3. What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?

LOS INCONFORMES: Hard to define as we like to blend all sorts of musical things. But definitely ska, dancing and letting loose are part of what we do. Even on some politically filled lyrics the music just invites you to jump, move and be yourself.

4. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?

LOS INCONFORMES: To us, our music is a snapshot of current events. By that definition our music will be a vehicle to explore social and political themes, it has to and we want to. There needs to be a voice talking about all these things. But at the same time, we will explore other topics like love and personal journeys. At the end of the day, music is a vehicle to explore and create what you feel at that point in time.

5. Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song? Do you usually start with a tune, a beat, or a narrative in your head? And do you collaborate with others in this process?
**LOS INCONFORMES**:
Being an eight person ensemble, everyone contributes to the creative process. Anyone might bring an idea and then it gets shaped by all. Very few ideas stay close to the original proposition. Lyrically I let the music speak to me. It gives me the melody, mood and topic.

6. What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?

LOS INCONFORMES:

The most difficult thing for us is to compromise or agree on something. We are eight people with different points of view, it is a big challenge. But at the same time it provides the space for creativity and to “throw in the bowl” any influence that might come to mind.

7. On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?

LOS INCONFORMES:

Definitely to experience people connecting to the music. Whether it is by dancing or understanding the meaning of a song, it is the fulfillment of all the endured work.

8. With social media having a heavy impact on our lives and the music business in general, how do you handle criticism, haters, and/or naysayers in general? Is it something you pay attention to, or simply ignore?

LOS INCONFORMES:

Humm! Actually never thought of this. We don’t track the haters, there must be out there of course. But we have always been confident in what we create, if you don’t like it then so be it. There is plenty of music out there. Waste of time to be criticizing a band when there are plenty more to discover.

9. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?

LOS INCONFORMES: One feeds the other. To see us live is an experience! You will dance, jump, sweat and overall have a good time. But for that to happen we need the studio time to create.

10. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?

LOS INCONFORMES: Some songs are very direct in their themes and leave not much room for interpretation. Other songs do allow for that, on those, feel free to go where they take you. That is one of the beauties of art, it can mean different things to each individual.