Do512 - What to do in Austin

Este Vato is a six-piece Latin/Fusion band out of Austin, TX, founded by brothers Rocky and Oscar Reyna. Este Vato is "An excellent combination of Latin Rock, Hip-Hop, Cumbia, and Reggae with electronic samples and inspirational lyrics", says Max Dropout (Talent Buyer at Beerland). "Their heavy bass and drum beats will carry you across the dance floor", says Manny Morales (local blogger and live music enthusiast).

Este Vato includes Ricardo Lara, Feliciano "Chano" Lopez, Rey Treviño, and Frank Ramirez. Rocky and Oscar come from a family with a tremendous musical background. With just about every member of the "Reyna" family being a musician, Rocky and Oscar were strongly influenced by their father, Oscar Benavides Reyna. An all-around musician that can play just about any instrument he can put his hands on, but known mostly for his harmonizing voice and his intricate accordion playing techniques. Oscar, although heavily influenced by hard-core and metal music, is influenced by wide spectrum of Mexican-American music and has been playing guitar for well over a decade.

In the Summer of 2008, Rocky and Oscar met with old-time friends Feliciano "Chano" Lopez and Rey Treviño. Chano's ability to combine both English and Spanish lyrics, arms him with an arsenal of intricate rhymes that defines his political views and life struggles. Rey backs him up beautifully, combining electronic samples, sound effects, and scratches, making him a Turntablist/Samplist not to be reckoned with. Ricardo Lara adds his talent and experience as a Singer/Songwriter to EV's lineup, showcasing his eclectic style and powerful voice. Frank completes the lineup, bringing his 10+ years experience as a well known, veteran drummer in Austin's live music scene. Frank's excellent hand & foot coordination creates an arsenal of double-bass drum techniques, drum fills, and polyrhythmic drumming techniques which works as the heart beat of EV.

Este Vato is well on their way to make their mark in Austin's Latin music scene. Be sure to keep an eye and ear out for Este Vato, and attending a live show is strongly recommended.