New York’s unique and talented ensemble, Flor De Toloache celebrates Women’s History Month with the release of “Florecita Rock-ERA”, a compilation of unforgettable anthems inspired by the great rock classics, which left their mark on the group’s sound.
Produced by Shae Fiol and Mireya Ramos, the album was recorded remotely by the band while they were separated in New Zealand, New Jersey, Connecticut and Washington.
Paying a never-before-seen tribute in rock music, the Latin GRAMMY Award winners, re-invent iconic songs through Mariachi lenses by adapting them with the unique Flor de Toloache style.
Featuring previously released singles such as “Florecita Rockera”, “La Tierra” and “De Música Ligera”, “Florecita Rock-ERA” undoubtedly intrigues and reflects the versatility of the female group!
“The songs we picked for this compilation reflect both our musical heritage and our love for fusion. We want our fans to take a musical journey with us and show them how fun it could be to reinterpret such classic tracks through our own instrumentation and artistic lens.”
Speaking of fun, the band still managed to greatly enjoy the creative process of making this record despite being separated due to quarantine.
“You know we’ve been a band for so long now and certain dynamics are just ingrained in our process whether we’re in the same room or not. That’s not to say we didn’t face a fair amount of challenges but that’s exactly why we are so proud of it: because after all no matter what life brings, our strength as a group is unassailable and it shows in the music we make.”
With such a wide array of compelling tracks, it was hard for the band to choose a favorite when asked about it; however Mireya reveals how “Penelope was probably the track I was the most eager to tackle because of the attachment I have to it and all the memories it brings back.”
Shae also adds how “it was such an amazing discovery since I didn’t know the song and that’s probably why we were able to give it such a deeper layer of originality. It’s funny because I don’t think anyone would be able to tell that I wasn’t familiar with the original! That goes to show once again how powerful our human and artistic connection is!”
Shae and Mireya started playing in the subway in NYC and ended up winning a Latin Grammy which makes for such a fascinating and empowering story how did they get there?
“Everything started because of our friendship and our mutual love for music!” Shae confessed
“I just thought it was so fun playing together that I wasn’t even thinking about anything else! We didn’t know what was going to happen but we both had a feeling we were on a MAJOR adventure!”
“I remember we were performing at the restaurant I used to work at – Shae continues – and my mom was there and after the show she just said ‘I don’t know what it is but when you and Mireya play together something magical happens.’ That’s when I realized we were on to something!”
“We were grinding on the subway for so long until The Daily News did a piece on us. That made me feel we were on a path towards something bigger!”
“If we could leave you with a meaningful message – they both conclude – that would be ‘just put the work in!’ It’s that simple! You need to make sure you focus 200% of your energy to your music if you want it to make an impact and reach an audience. Never get discouraged and keep it up despite all the obstacles you face! That’s the only way to build something that lasts!”
