La Oreja de Van Gogh is the latest import from Spain delivering pop music with a feminine touch. Think Gwen Stefani in Spanish and you’ll have lead singer Amaia Montero, providing the band with its’ infectious energy. Two weeks ago, LODVG kicked off its’ national tour at the House of Blues, on Sunset Strip, with an enthusiastic crowd. In her beige tank top, tan heeled boots, New York City emblazoned tight white skirt and disheveled hair, Amaia was hot. She exuded confidence to her appreciative fans. They opened with a scratchy version of Doris Day’s Que Sera, Sera, before bouncing into one to their self-penned tunes.

The band is made up of five lifelong friends. Starting out playing in bars, they recorded three albums which were well received throughout Europe and in their native Spain. Rolling Stone magazine chose them as the only Latin group to watch in their 2005 calendar.

Their sound is pop, but not sugary sweet. They won’t hurt your teeth. Their edge comes from lyrics with substance. Amaia’s breathy voice can be both powerful and soft, without coming off as weak. Her prowess was evident with the crowd. She had the audience at her command. People in the balcony leaned dangerously over the rail. Her power over men is almost mystical. Many sang along. One man seemed to forget his date as he jumped and flung his arms about. That’s Amaia’s power.

Their performance at HOB was hot and sweaty thanks to the band and the fact that the air-conditioning stopped working. People showed their support with flashing red lights, courtesy of Bud Lite, and by buying overpriced T-shirts. LODVG proved they have a strong following. It won’t be long before more American audiences take notice.