Most dictionaries define kinky two ways: “tightly curled hair”, and “sexual activity that is considered to deviate from the norm; bizarre, deviant or perverted practices.”
The second definition is the one that best describes this band from Monterrey, México. For the most part, the music they come up with is charged with such energy that has been known to provoke “eargasms” for tons of music-loving connoisseurs.
It’s a difficult and almost impossible task to classify Kinky into a specific genre. They fuse various styles, borrowing the best from each. Among their unique sound you can distinguish rock, dance, funk, electronica, as well as a fusion of Latin styles that range from bossa nova to the accordion typically used in “norteñas.”
Kinky are known for their on-stage performances, and that is precisely why they were able score a record deal with Sonic360. This London-based label signed Kinky after the band won the outstanding unsigned Latin American band award at 2000’s LAMC (Latin Alternative Music Conference) in New York.
With the release of their debut album Kinky (2002), they immediately turned heads their way thanks to the album’s unabashed creativity. Part of the buzz generated by this album was the fact that the band was not trying to target any specific market. It didn’t seem to fit any established genre, and that’s what made it such a great album. Not to mention the great energy and flow of the album filled with electric guitars, conga drums, electro-beats, as well as goofy Spanglish lyrics.
In an effort to approach music in a different way while still keeping that “Kinky” essence, the band released Atlas (2003). Adding a wide array of styles to their already eclectic sound, Kinky even gave trip-hop a try on this album. The explosions of percussion, subtly strummed guitar and witty vocals gave their sophomore album a more “live” feel.
"A Donde Van Los Muertos" | video from: chilango014
It was until 2006 that they released their third studio album Reina. While their debut was all about the danceable head-banging songs and their sophomore disc triumphed in infectious, highly melodic pop, their third album saw the band go in both directions. This time around, they used the accordion a bit more, giving the album a subtle Nortec vibe to it.
While working in between albums, Kinky keep themselves busy by writing jingles, recording songs for tribute albums, and performing at some of the hottest venues and festivals, including Coachella and Lollapalooza.
Kinky is: Gilberto Cerezo (Vocals), Ulises Lozano (Keyboards), Carlos Chairez (Guitar), Omar Góngora (Drums), and Cesar Pliego (Bass).
