Los Thuthanaka: A Rising Force in Music
Los Thuthanaka burst onto the music scene last year, captivating audiences with their self-titled debut album, which surprisingly clinched Pitchfork’s Album of the Year award. Despite its acclaim, the album was not available on streaming platforms, which caused it to largely go unnoticed by many music lovers. It wasn’t until Pitchfork highlighted it in their year-end list that it re-emerged in conversations about innovative music. Described as sounding “like nothing else,” Los Thuthanaka combines joyous, jagged melodies that evoke the feeling of music echoing from a broken Bluetooth speaker in a neighbor’s backyard. The unique sound has made a lasting impression, capturing listeners’ imaginations.
Introducing ‘Wak’a’
Following their groundbreaking debut, Los Thuthanaka released the EP titled Wak’a, which takes a different approach. This EP steps back from the frenetic energy of their first album, smoothing out some of the sharper edges while still employing a kaleidoscopic palette of sounds. Using traditional Bolivian instruments, the music is an exquisite blend of plunderphonics and psychedelic rock. This time, however, the group channels a shoegaze influence, giving the melodies and chord progressions a more wistful quality. The guitars are drenched in fuzz and reverb, with horns and keys surfacing like echoes of forgotten tunes.
A Cultural Narrative
Siblings Chuquimamani-Condori and Joshua Chuquimia Crampton expertly weave a sonic interpretation of the Aymara creation myth—the tale of the first sunrise—over three tracks, totaling just 18 and a half minutes. Buyers of the Wak’a EP on Bandcamp receive a downloadable PDF, created in partnership with Ch’ama Native Americas, that includes the story in the Aymara language. This adds a layer of cultural depth and authenticity to an already rich musical experience.
Emerging from Darkness
The EP begins with “Quta (capo-kullawada),” a track that opens with a low synth drone accompanied by chirping crickets. It builds gradually as an Eno-esque guitar melody and a loping, distorted drumline emerge. The second track, “Wara Wara (capo-kullawada),” while hauntingly beautiful, invokes a sense of dread. The overwhelming wall of sound mirrors the shocking beauty of the first rays of sunlight for those who have known only darkness. It builds to a cathartic climax, where horns, keyboards, growling vocals, and churning guitars collide in a sonic frenzy that is exhilarating and intense.
A Calm Conclusion
In contrast, “Ay Kawkinpachasa? (capo-kullawada)” offers a more soothing experience, despite its dense arrangement. Multiple instruments fight for attention, including what appears to be an accordion and fiddle, creating a rich sonic tapestry. As the track unfolds, stuttering guitars take center stage, signaling the EP’s end.
A Gateway to Unique Soundscapes
For those who found their self-titled album a bit too abrasive, Wak’a provides a more accessible entry point into the remarkable world of Los Thuthanaka. Available now on Bandcamp, this EP serves not only as a musical journey but also as a lyrical exploration of cultural narratives.
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