Argentina’s rock scene remains deeply tied to the enduring influence of Indio Solari, the frontman of Los Redonditos de Ricota. For twenty years, the Fundamentalistas del Aire Acondicionado have stood by Solari, keeping his voice alive on stage as he steps back from live performances. With the singer less visible in performance, the band members share vocal duties, presenting every show as a homage to the beloved artist and a continuation of his artistic legacy.
Their concerts mirror the affection fans hold for Solari. Now touring across Spain and the United Kingdom for a second leg, they pause in Alicante on Saturday, February 24, at 8:30 PM, performing at VB Spaces. The venue will host a night shaped by the band’s homage to Solari and their enduring quest to carry forward Los Redonditos’ spirit.
In discussing this European visit, the group sits down with Déborah Dixon, a seasoned soul, blues, and gospel singer who has shared stages with legends such as BB King, Fito Páez, and Joaquín Sabina. Dixon has found a place performing rock and roll that appears to fill venues across Argentina, and now Europe, with momentum that mirrors the band’s growing reputation abroad.
They began their second European tour with a clear question in mind: how does the European audience compare with the Argentine crowds? The interview reveals a diverse mix at the concerts. A sizable contingent of Argentines travels to see them, yet a rising local audience in Spain and other parts of Europe is becoming increasingly prominent. This cross-border appeal broadens the reach of Solari’s music and of Los Redonditos, extending a legacy beyond familiar markets.
The journey to test their resonance across the ocean speaks volumes. The group recalls arriving in 2022 and receiving a stunning reception. Since that moment, enthusiasm has grown, and each performance is met with energy, joy, and a strong connection with listeners who sing along and participate wholeheartedly.
What can a fan in Alicante anticipate from the night? The set list centers on Indio Solari’s extensive catalog, weaving together songs written by Solari over the years with selections from Los Redonditos. Fans can expect a program that traverses multiple eras and albums, crafted to keep the crowd energized and singing throughout the evening.
A tribute to Indio Solari is at the heart of the show. Solari remains a pivotal and influential figure in Argentina’s music, while Los Redonditos were rarely seen performing outside their home country, save for a few appearances in Uruguay. The European and British performances are therefore particularly noteworthy, signaling a shared desire to bring Solari’s work to listeners far from the southern continent. There is a hope that the band can meet the high expectations set by Solari’s enduring cultural impact.
Asked what sets this collaboration apart, the response highlights a rock-centric identity. The ensemble plays rock with a unique mystique, rooted in performing Solari’s material. The speaker, who has worked with many artists, emphasizes that this project feels distinct because it has become their own band, a genuine collective voice rather than a side project.
As generations shift within the music scene, projects like this reinforce the importance of Argentine rock. For the narrator, rock is seen as a form of timeless music. Blues remains a personal passion, yet rock’s expansive reach and enduring energy invite audiences across ages. Concerts often reveal multigenerational crowds, with young listeners joining the ranks of established fans, illustrating how rock can travel across generations from parent to child.
Turning to current trends in Argentine urban music, including trap and pop on the international stage, the stance is one of independence from mainstream currents. The speaker has never chased the spotlight and believes that popular songs do not always represent the best artistry. While open to new ideas, there is a sense that some modern tracks lack a substantive message. The hope is for music that resonates beyond the fleeting moment and offers lasting meaning.
A recurring theme is that rock carries messages. The genre invites listeners to reflect, and its lyrics invite personal interpretation, creating a personal bond with each listener. Although this interpretive depth may lag behind some newer styles, it remains a defining strength of rock’s enduring appeal.
Argentina’s cultural landscape today faces political pressures. The government under Milei is perceived as clashing with the cultural sector, with public figures like Lali becoming focal points in the broader cultural discussion. Although not native to Argentina, the speaker has spent many years in the country and speaks passionately about defending cultural rights and supporting fellow artists. The position is clear: culture should be safeguarded, and solidarity within the artistic community is essential to preserve the nation’s creative output. The refrain is that collective action matters and the struggle to protect cultural achievements continues.
Reflecting on personal history, the artist notes an early career rooted in a female-led group that became iconic. Four women navigated a male-dominated scene to establish an enduring presence. Those early experiences underscored the importance of rights and equality within the music industry. The journey has been challenging, but the commitment remains firm.