With almost four decades of experience and an unwavering connection with their audience, the parakeets continue to write memorable chapters in the history of Latin American reggae. The Argentine band, which marked generations with their unmistakable style, is back in Chile on May 23 with a show that promises to be a party full of nostalgia and celebration: the anniversary tour of its emblematic album “Big Yuyo”.
In the midst of the tour and the recent release of ‘Immortal’, a collaboration with Mexican artist Sabino, we met online with Guillermo “Topo” Raiman, drummer and founding member of the band, to talk about the present of the Pericos, the legacy of the classic 1992 album and the emotion of reunitting with the Chilean public.
– ‘Immortal’ marks a generational crossing with Sabino, how was it for you to experience that fusion between your classic reggae and Sabino’s fresh style?
– Sabino is an artist who loves because, although it comes from the urban field, it also has roots in rock. We liked that from the beginning. We knew each other personally at a festival in Querétaro, Mexico, and there we told him that we had a song that seemed ideal for him. Sabino turned out to be a fan of the parakeets, so it was easy to find points in common. He liked the song and contributed his art, his poetry and all his mark. The result was a song that we love, and we are also very happy with the video and the response it has had from the public.
– Did they already have this issue armed and then invited Sabino to participate?
– Clear. We had already been working on new material and had several composite songs. We thought it would be nice to include collaborations, something we always liked to do. In that context, the possibility of inviting Sabino to this particular issue, and everything flowed to be realized.
– They had mentioned that recording the video in Buenos Aires was very special. How was that personal and artistic encounter with Sabino in Argentina?
– It was a very good experience. We take advantage that Sabino came to do some concerts here and we hurried everything to record the video while he was in the country. Beyond the recording itself, we shared time together, we ate, chat and met more. Those moments of coexistence are fundamental. Hopefully soon there is the possibility of doing something live together physically, because for now we do it with him appearing on the screen. But it would be great to be able to share real scenario.
– The “Big Yuyo” tour brings them to Chile again. How has it been to revive that album and what does it mean today for you?
– Relivir “Big Yuyo” was an immense joy. It is an album that marked us a lot because it was the first one we recorded in the United States, with a producer like Thom Russo, who came from working with Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton and a lot of giant artists. We recorded in mythical studies such as A&M, Conway and Ocean Way. It was an experience that opened our heads and, in addition, the album had a great impact. In Argentina it became double platinum and was the one that allowed us to turn around Latin America. The reception was incredible in all the cities where we present it, and it fills us with emotion now to Chile.
– What rediscovered in those songs when playing them live again after so long?
– We meet a repertoire that, although it was always present in the shows, now returned in its entirety. There are songs that we did not play years ago, and bringing them back was almost like rediscovering them. In addition, touching them with the maturity and experience we have today makes them sound different, with another energy. We feel that it was a beautiful way of paying tribute to the album, and at the same time meet again with an audience that is very present in emotional memory.
– After almost 40 years of experience, what continues to motivate them as a band?
– We are motivated by love for music, for playing live, for traveling and connecting with people. We always say that we have the best job in the world, and that is not just a phrase. Having the possibility of doing what we like, continuing to record records, getting on stage and sharing our music with different generations is something that we value a lot. In addition, we continue to enjoy the creative process and everything that implies being part of the parakeets.
– They have revolved for many countries, but what is special for the Chilean public for you?
– Chile was always very important to us. It is a country with a strong musical history, with a demanding and passionate audience. From the first time we went, we felt a very special connection. Every time we play there, we are surprised by the energy with which they receive us, how they sing the songs, how they participate in the show. In addition, it unites us a very nice cultural closeness. Going to Chile is always a party, and that’s why we are so excited about this new visit.
– How do they prepare for this reunion with the Chilean public on May 23?
– We are preparing a very special show, with all the emotion that Big Yuyo revive live. It will be a night to celebrate the music, the history of the band and the link we have with the Chilean public. We are also going to play new songs, such as Immortal, so it will be a good balance between the past, present and future. We want it to be an unforgettable experience for everyone who is there.
Matias Arteaga S.
