Los Guiros

Biography

Los Güiros is a psychedelic cumbia band originating from New Orleans, Louisiana, formed in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The group is led by frontwoman Corina Hernandez, whose multicultural upbringing exposed her to a wide variety of musical traditions, particularly the folkloric rhythms of Central and South America. Hernandez's passion for cumbia—a genre she describes as more of a rhythm than a style—serves as the foundation for the band's sound, which merges traditional Colombian dance beats with the psychedelic guitar and organ textures of Peruvian chicha, all infused with modern electronic elements.

The band’s formation began with a performance for Galaxie Tacos’ anniversary, quickly evolving into regular gigs and festival appearances as their energetic shows gained local acclaim. Los Güiros is distinguished by its unconventional lineup: Shaye Cohn on accordion and synth, Greg Northwood on electric guitar, Todd Burdick (of Tuba Skinny) on sousaphone, Miguel Cruz on congas, Gabriel Cruz on timbales, and Howe Pearson on electronic drums. Their interplay on stage is marked by improvisational flair and a playful spirit, creating a vibrant, dance-inducing atmosphere that has resonated with diverse audiences in New Orleans and beyond.

Since their inception, Los Güiros has become one of the city’s busiest Latin groups, performing at major festivals such as Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival—where they were the only Latin act invited—and releasing original music including their debut EP 'Alma de Cumbia' in 2024. Their legacy is rooted in honoring Latin American musical traditions while pushing boundaries with innovative arrangements and electronic experimentation, making them a key force in the contemporary electrocumbia scene.

Fun Facts

• Los Güiros substitutes the traditional cumbia bass with a sousaphone, played by Todd Burdick, giving their sound a uniquely New Orleans flavor.
• The band began as a cover group for a taco shop anniversary and quickly transitioned to writing original material after enthusiastic audience response.
• Their debut EP 'Alma de Cumbia' features artwork by Magda Boreysza, a friend of the band.
• Los Güiros was the only Latin band invited to perform at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in 2024.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Totó la Momposina - Traditional Colombian percussionist and folkloric music icon; cited by Corina Hernandez as a major influence. (Traditional Colombian cumbia repertoire) [Referenced influence, ongoing]
• Los Mirlos, Los Destellos, Los Hijos del Sol - Peruvian chicha bands whose psychedelic and electronic styles shaped Los Güiros' musical direction. (Peruvian chicha recordings from the 1970s) [Referenced influence, ongoing]
• Celso Piña - Mexican cumbia artist noted for his fusion of traditional and modern sounds. (Mexican cumbia recordings) [Referenced influence, ongoing]

Key Collaborators

• Corina Hernandez - Bandleader, vocalist, songwriter, and creative force behind Los Güiros. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, 'Cumbia Mezcal' single) [2021–present]
• Shaye Cohn - Accordion and synth player, contributes to the band's signature sound and improvisational style. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]
• Greg Northwood - Electric guitarist, known for surf-inspired effects and psychedelic textures. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]
• Todd Burdick - Sousaphone player (also of Tuba Skinny), provides bass lines with a New Orleans twist. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]
• Miguel Cruz - Congas player, anchors the band's Latin percussion section. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]
• Gabriel Cruz - Timbales player, adds rhythmic drive and texture. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]
• Howe Pearson - Electronic drums, integrates modern beats with traditional rhythms. ('Alma de Cumbia' EP, live performances) [2021–present]

Discography

Top Tracks

1. Cumbia Mezcal (Cumbia Mezcal)
2. Serpiente (Alma de Cumbia)
3. Cumbia Mezcal (Alma de Cumbia)
4. No hay Güiro (Alma de Cumbia)
5. Corazón Pesado (Alma de Cumbia)
6. Dunas (Alma de Cumbia)
7. Juntos Creamos Magia (Alma de Cumbia)

External Links

• Spotify