Malacates Trébol Shop

Malacates Trebol Shop

This band from Guatemala also known simply as “Malacates” might just be the next big thing to happen in latin music. Their history began in 1997 and by now their songs are known throughout Mexico, South America and latin communities abroad Guatemala. Their music has traveled and been heard in places so distant that some might have heard and enjoyed their tunes without even knowing who they are or where they come from.

Although still an independent band, Malacates has recorded three cd’s, their first being Paquetecuetes (Firecrackers)(1999) is filled with a very original mixture of latin rhythms such as traditional boleros with latin ska, or a very melodic two tone spiced with brass arrangements very common in latin music such as merenge or salsa. Paquetecuetes includes radio hits “NI un centavo” (Not one penny), “Pa’ que te acuerdes de mi” (“So you’ll remember me”) and “Mojado” (“Soaked”) all three number one hits in Guatemala’s and Honduras’ main stream radio stations. During this period the video for “Morena” (“Brunette”) was awarded best video by the Arcoiris Maya Art Foundation at Guatemala.

Their second release “Sí!” (2002), recorded at the Warehouse Studio, Miami shows the band’s improved sound after their first success. Again this anticipated cd hit the top of the charts with the singles “Mariachi-funky-disco” and “Quisiera” (“I wish”). This cd also includes the unreleased track “Morena”.

Much is said about their distinctive sound: lead singer Francisco’s strong and attractive voice is not what you would expect to find in a ska based latin band, still it makes you reminisce of a golden era of hispanic music brought back by fresh sounds where the new meets the vintage. Another of their key elements is the joyfulness provoked by Jacobo’s trumpet and Tico’s tenor sax, together both sweeten the sometimes upbeat rythms put together by Yuri (guitar) and Leonel (drums) wich serve as a melodic playground for this happy go lucky band out of Guatemala.

Malacates has shared the stage with some of the most important names in latin music such as Juanes, Carlos Vives, Aleks Syntek, the band Elefante, and many more as part of their tours through Central American territory.
So Malacates has still a lot to give to their growing followers from different parts of the world, the most positive energy and great songs will keep on coming from this independent band from Guatemala.


Malacates is about to release their 5th album produced by multi grammy winner KC Porter.