This year we are going to celebrate Día de Muertos again with Lo Poloko! Lo Poloko is a collective of musicians whose roots run deep in Mexican, Chilean, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese cultures that found each other in Rotterdam. And especially for this occasion, they will be joined by Chica Chica and the Mexican youth orchestra Amadeus!

From Mariachi balkan brass and bombastic latin grooves to hyper energetic percussion, a unique combination of sounds designed to make you dance as if it would be your last day on Earth.

“Día de Muertos” is a two day celebration that reunites the living and dead where families create “ofrendas” (offerings) to honor their departed family members that have passed, encouraging those departed souls to leave the land of the dead and celebrate with the living ones. Please feel free to bring your own “ofrendas” to the party and join us in this amazing celebration!

Having latin music as a core concept, Lo Poloko’s music is a perpetual search for new sounds, shredding countless different styles into Lo Poloko machine. Rock, Ska, Cumbia, Reggae, Balkan, Dub… they embrace them all!

Chica Chica

Psychedelic cumbia, exotic film scores and danceable grooves form the base for Chica Chica’s exciting music. Born out of the desire to travel, this trio takes you on a road-trip back in time. Funky melodic bass lines, boisterous wah-wah guitars and South American percussion. Organic and gritty, sunny and full of life. Like the analogue photo on your favourite Peruvian LP.

This emerging band started playing live in the summer of ‘22 and released their debut album in late ’23. The singles ‘Disco L’Africain’ and ‘Year of the Dragon’ both found their way into the regular rotation of NPO Soul and Jazz and early this year they played at ESNS. They are currently a much-loved guest at summer festivals and studio recordings have started for their second album, which will be released in 2025. This autumn, they will be on show during the Popronde.

Amadeus

The Amadeus youth Orchestra, formerly known as the Rio Blanco Youth Symphony Orchestra, originated in Rio Blanco, Veracruz. They will present a program inspired by the iconic Mexican celebration of Día de Muertos, with a fascinating mix of traditional Mexican music with a cumbia twist.

Founded in 2011, this youth orchestra provides a safe space for children and adolescents in a region deeply affected by organized crime. Through music, these young musicians find not only an escape, but also a purpose: to build their future, stay out of danger and spread a message of hope in their community. The orchestra is community-based, and families play a crucial role in supporting all of its activities, empowering these children and young people to develop and grow as positive members of society.

For almost two years, the orchestra has worked tirelessly to make this dream trip to the Netherlands a reality. By organizing various musical events and saving every cent, they have made this trip possible. This trip represents more than just a cultural exchange: it is a lifechanging experience that will shape their future and inspire others in Mexico.

With the support of the Sonoro Foundation (Pepe Garcia, Felicia van den End), which has been crucial in providing artistic guidance, donating instruments, and organizing workshops and festivals, this orchestra exemplifies how music can uplift communities and change lives. They are a true example of resilience and transformation. We hope you leave inspired by their passion, dedication, and the transformative power of music. ¡Viva México!