COMBO CHIMBITA dr martens
[Photo by: Vincent Martelll]

Dr. Martens presents Colombian psychedelic post-punks Combo Chimbita

Today Dr. Martens continues its series of micro-documentaries on vibrant bands. This week, the iconic music/lifestyle brand puts the spotlight on Combo Chimbita. Their fascinating blend of indigenous Colombian music and forward-thinking imagination will take your frontal lobes for a ride.  

It’s easy to see why Dr. Martens chose this band of Colombians living in New York City as part of their esteemed series. Director Vincent Martell captured Combo Chimbita in the neighborhood of Park Slope, discussing the sonic implications of what they do, as well as the socio-political aspects.

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“Music for us is our awakening,” bassist/synth op Prince Of Queens explains. “It’s a way to connect with deeper energies and ourselves in a way that no political system will ever do. That’s what keeps us together.”

Well, that and the amazing music, undoubtedly. During the performance sections of their Dr. Martens video, Combo Chimbita—the Prince, vocalist Carolina Oliveros, guitarist Niño Lento and drummer Dilemastronautaimbue their post-punk grooves with indigenous Colombian music.

Chimbita’s not-so-secret weapon is Oliveros, whose technical prowess is marked by her ability to flex where the music takes her. Her melodic roar, coupled with her ability to switch into chatter, grunting and other textural utterances, further heightens the band’s artistry.

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Combo Chimbita’s second album, Ahomale, was released by Anti- Records this past spring, and it’s one more record you need to check out before making your yearly “best of” lists. From the David Lynch-meets-Jack White cinematic vibe of the title track to the cosmic synth-vistas of “El Camino” to the charging “Al Templo,” Combo Chimbita are writing the next chapter of Latin American culture. Check out the video and hear the magic that compelled Dr. Martens and director Martell to help them tell their story.