Summer Bonus: Los Bitchos

Photo by Tom Mitchell

Some bands excel at creating the vibe of a party, but it takes another kind of band to keep that flame alive. Los Bitchos, an all-girl rock band based in London, are carrying the torch of that party spirit; all while doing it their own way. When I first heard of this band, I immediately knew they had to be on the podcast, especially because of what I just mentioned. I’m always drawn to acts that embody authenticity, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more joyously authentic album than Los Bitchos debut, Let The Festivities Begin! (which is out now).

With a blend of instrumental psychedelia and Latin cumbia, the album reminds us that a carefree world can exist, even if just for a little while. Listening to this album feels like being at a house party with people you just met but feel like you’ve known for years; a feeling I can say is also present at the band’s live shows. Since the beginning of this year, they’ve been on a non-stop run of shows, both headlining affairs and supporting the likes of Belle and Sebastian and Franz Ferdinand. This episode is very much an introductory piece of sorts (think of the De Staat episode from season 4). I caught up with guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Agustina Ruiz after their US tour to discuss how the band came to be and her favourite experiences from recording one of the best albums of 2022.

Los Bitchos are currently wrapping up a European tour and will be touring the UK starting on September 20th in Bedford. They’ll also be supporting Franz Ferdinand again throughout October, with a massive show at London’s Ally Pally on October 20th. Be sure to visit their website for more tour dates.

After you hear the episode, be sure to check out Los Bitchos track Las Panteras on the official New Exchange Playlist. Also, be sure to follow Los Bitchos on Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.