Astropical Debuts with "Me Pasa," Fusion of Colombian and Venezuelan Sounds
Colombia’s acclaimed Bomba Estéreo has joined forces with Venezuelan band Rawayana to create a new musical project called Astropical. The collaboration launched with the release of their debut single, "Me Pasa (Piscis)," accompanied by a whimsical nautical music video. This venture marks a significant development in the Latin music scene, uniting artists from different countries to produce a fresh sound.
New Music and Visuals
The track "Me Pasa" showcases a blend of influences characteristic of both bands. The accompanying music video features the group reveling on a boat until it eventually sinks, portraying a playful take on themes of celebration and loss. Directed by Edgar Esteves, Paola Ossa, and Ana Peralta Chong, the video enhances the song’s upbeat tempo while conveying a deeper message.
Formation of Astropical
Astropical comprises Liliana “Li” Saumet and José Castillo of Bomba Estéreo, and Alberto “Beto” Montenegro and Andrés “Fofo” Story from Rawayana. The formation of this supergroup represents a significant alliance in Latin music, leveraging the distinct styles of each member to forge a new path. They are already planning an international tour, with their first performance scheduled for the Vive Latino festival in Mexico City on March 16.
Artist Statements
Saumet expressed the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Astropical embodies an energy that already preceded us and needed to materialize. This is a very important time on a political, cultural, and environmental level. We need melodies and lyrics such as these ones as a way of shepherding the moment.” This highlights the group’s intent to blend entertainment with a message reflective of contemporary issues.
Montenegro echoed similar sentiments, sharing, “Musically, I feel like I’m the son of Bomba Estéreo. When Li called us, it was like a dream come true. I’ve been thinking for so long that I treasure the sonic universe that Bomba Estéreo navigates.” His admiration emphasizes the influence Bomba Estéreo has had on the Latin music landscape and the personal connection both artists share.
Recognition and Future Prospects
Rawayana has recently gained considerable acclaim, winning their first Latin Grammy and securing a nomination for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards. They will also take the stage at Coachella in April, signifying their rising prominence in the music industry. The collaboration with Bomba Estéreo adds another layer to their artistic journey, potentially attracting a wider audience to both bands.
Conclusion
The emergence of Astropical with "Me Pasa" signifies a cross-cultural collaboration that could influence upcoming trends in Latin music. By merging the distinctive sounds of Colombia and Venezuela, the group not only creates an exciting musical experience but also addresses cultural, political, and environmental themes pertinent to today’s society. As the global music landscape continues to evolve, collaborations like these are essential in enhancing diversity and fostering unity through shared creative expression.
For a glimpse of their unique sound, listen to "Me Pasa" here.
