Son Rompe Pera

Son Rompe Pera, a Mexican fusion band formed in 2017 by brothers Jesús “Kacho” Gama and Allan “Mongo” Gama, along with Raúl Albarrán, Ricardo López, José Ángel “Kilos” Gama, and Cana Murillo, originated in Naucalpan, a suburb of Mexico City. The Gama brothers were introduced to marimba music through their late father, José Dolores “Batuco” Gama Melchor, playing alongside him in streets, weddings, and parties for nearly two decades. While performing with their father, the brothers also developed an interest in rock and punk music, playing in underground bands across Mexico City. This dual exposure to traditional marimba and modern punk genres laid the foundation for their unique musical style, which blends cumbia, danzón, rock, and ska with traditional Mexican marimba.

A pivotal moment for Son Rompe Pera occurred in 2013 at the Lagunilla tianguis, where a chance public performance caught the attention of Timothy Bisig, who later became their manager. This connection led to them opening the main stage of the Vive Latino Festival, performing for a large crowd that treated them like headliners. In 2017, they traveled to Chile, forming a friendship with Macha (Aldo Asenjo) of Chico Trujillo. Macha facilitated studio sessions that resulted in their 2020 debut album, “Batuco,” named in honor of their father. This album featured punk-infused renditions of classics like Los Cadetes de Linares’ “No Hay Novedad” and Laurel Aitken’s “Mi Vida Sin Tu Amor,” alongside the triumphant “Cumbia Algarrobera,” recorded with their father in 2015.

Son Rompe Pera has continued to evolve, recording a Tiny Desk Concert for NPR in 2022 and performing at major festivals such as Vive Latino and Coachella in 2024. They are currently working on a new album, focusing on original material rather than reinterpretations, aiming to capture their live energy. The band’s motto, “Cumbia is the new punk,” reflects their approach to proudly celebrating their heritage while pushing musical boundaries. Their influences range from Colombian cumbia legend Andrés Landero to rock bands like Green Day and The Clash, highlighting their diverse musical background and commitment to an innovative fusion of genres.