Flema

Flema from Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, was a prominent Argentine punk rock band. The current lineup included Fernando Rossi (lead vocals and bass guitar), Luis Gribaldo, Miguel de Luna Campos, and Bruno Gonzáles (guitar), and Sergio Lencina (drums).

The band underwent numerous lineup changes, and no original members remained at the time of its disbandment. Notably, it was led by the controversial punk figure Ricardo “Ricky” Espinosa until his untimely death in 2002. Flema gained recognition for tracks like “Borrachos en la esquina,” “Semen de buey,” and “El blanco cristal.”

Early Days and Development

Formed in 1987, the band emerged in Avellaneda when its members were teenagers. Flema experienced a series of lineup changes throughout its existence, with Ricky Espinosa being the sole constant member from its foundation until its eventual end. In 1992, they released their debut record, Pogo, Mosh & Slam, through the independent label 69 Records.

Success in the Argentine Punk Scene

Flema achieved success within the Argentine punk scene, known for chaotic live shows where members, often intoxicated, engaged with the audience. Ricky Espinosa’s confrontational stage presence, including fights with the public and on-stage drug use, became a trademark. Their music, featuring guttural sounds by Espinosa, resonated with teenagers facing similar problems in the suburbs.

Ricky Espinosa’s Tragic Demise

On May 30, 2002, Ricky Espinosa met a tragic end by falling off a building in Avellaneda at the age of 34. The circumstances surrounding his death were marked by intoxication and a disoriented moment on a balcony. Espinosa had previously hinted at suicidal thoughts through song titles. The funeral was attended by numerous fans and punks, causing the original venue to suspend the ceremony. Flema was temporarily disbanded after this tragic event.

Reformation and Continued Journey

In 2007, marking the band’s twenty-year anniversary, surviving members reunited for a concert at El Teatro Flores. Initially planned as a one-time performance, Flema continued touring into 2008, officially reuniting and resuming activities that year.

Band Members

Final Lineup:

• Ricky Epinosa – guitar (1987-1988), lead vocals (1992-1999)
• Luichi Gribaldo – guitar (1994-1999)
• Maximiliano Martin – guitar (1999)
• Fernando Rossi – bass (1993-1999)
• Diego Piazza – drums (1999)

Former Members:

Numerous members from various periods between 1987 and 1998.

Discography

Studio Albums

• El primero, 1987
• Corriendo con Satán, 1989
• Pogo, Mosh & Slam, 1992
• El exceso de drogas y alcohol es perjudicial para tu salud… ¡Cuidate, nadie lo hará por vos!, 1994
• Nunca Nos Fuimos, 1995
• Si el placer es un pecado… bienvenidos Al Infierno, 1997
• Resaka, 1998
• Caretofobia I, 2000
• Caretofobia II, 2001
• Cinco de copas, 2002
• No nos rendimos, 2015

Live Albums

• Es una mierd@, 1999
• La noche de las narices blancas, 1999
• Flema Not Dead, volumen I, 2010
• Flema Not Dead, volumen II, 2011