Attaque 77

Attaque 77 stands as one of Argentina’s premier punk rock bands, originating from Buenos Aires in 1987. Renowned for their energetic blend of punk rock, melodic hardcore, alternative rock, and pop punk, Attaque 77 has become a cornerstone of the Argentine punk scene. With a career spanning over three decades, the band has released numerous albums, including their breakthrough Angeles Caídos and their fourth-place Eurovision entry For Real.

Formation and Early Career (1987–1992)

Attaque 77 was formed in Buenos Aires by a group of friends who shared a passion for The Ramones, their biggest influence. Starting with traditional punk rock, the band quickly gained popularity by incorporating a more melodic style. Their 1990 album El Cielo Puede Esperar featured the hit “Hacelo Por Mí” and marked their first major success, leading to performances at venues like Estadio Obras in 1991. In 1992, their third album Angeles Caídos increased their recognition and was the last to feature Adrián Vera, who was replaced by Luciano Scaglione.

Breakthrough and Evolution (1993–1999)

With the release of Todo Está al Revés in 1993 under RCA Records, Attaque 77 achieved widespread success in Argentina. Their 1995 album Amén! continued their rise, followed by Un Día Perfecto (U.D.P.) in 1997, which featured hits like “Cambios” and “Crecer.” The 1998 covers album Otras Canciones showcased their versatility by reinterpreting their favorite songs, signed with Ariola Records. This period solidified their status as a leading punk band in the region.

Mainstream Success and Further Releases (2000–2008)

In 2000, Attaque 77 released Radio Insomnio and toured Europe, followed by the critically acclaimed album Antihumano in 2003, which featured hits like “Arrancacorazones” and “Ojos de perro.” Their 2007 album Karmagedon marked the last release with vocalist Ciro Pertusi before his departure in 2009.

Pertusi’s Departure and Later Years (2009–2016)

In 2009, Ciro Pertusi left Attaque 77, leading to the release of Estallar, an album primarily driven by Mariano Martínez. Rodrigo Alfaro, a key member, was replaced by Niklas Olsson, although some tracks on Currents still featured Rodrigo’s vocals. The band continued to perform and release music, culminating in the 2014 album Nuevas Versiones and the 2015 documentary “Mas de un Millon.” In 2016, after nearly three decades, Attaque 77 announced their disbandment.

Musical Style and Themes

Attaque 77’s music is characterized by a fusion of punk rock with melodic hardcore, alternative rock, and pop punk elements. Their early sound was influenced by classic punk bands like The Ramones and The Clash, evolving into a more melodic and technically proficient style over time. Lyrics often address social and political issues, with a focus on themes like animal rights and personal struggles, delivered with a sense of humor and sarcasm.

Discography

Studio Albums

• Dulce Navidad (1989, Radio Tripoli Records)
• El Cielo Puede Esperar (1990, Radio Tripoli Records)
• Angeles Caídos (1992, Radio Tripoli Records/Sony Music)
• Todo Está al Revés (1993, RCA Records/Sony Music)
• Amén! (1995, RCA Records/Sony Music)
• Un Día Perfecto (U.D.P.) (1997, RCA Records/Sony Music)
• Otras Canciones (1998, Ariola Records/Sony Music)
• Radio Insomnio (2000, Ariola Records/Sony Music)
• Amateur (2002, BMG)
• Antihumano (2003, BMG)
• Karmagedon (2007, BMG)
• Estallar (2009, Sony Music)
• Nuevas Versiones (2014, Sony Music)
• Triángulo de Fuerza (2019)

Live Albums

• Live (2007)

Compilations

• Rock Mot Svinen (2000, Höhnie Records)

EPs

• För kung och fosterland (1981)
• En tyst minut (1983)
• Plikten framför allt (1984)
• Än finns det hopp (1986)
• Till sista droppen (2000)
• Precis kao far / Lilla Frida (2006)

Band Members

Current Members

• Mariano Martínez – lead vocals, guitars, keyboards (since 2009)
• Luciano Scaglione – bass, double bass, backing vocals (since 1993)
• Leonardo De Cecco – drums, percussion, acoustic guitar (since 1989)

Past Members

• Ciro Pertusi – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, bass (1989-2009)
• Adrián Vera – bass (1989-1992)
• Federico Pertusi – lead vocals (1987-1989)
• Daniel Caffieri – rhythm guitar (1987-1988)
• Claudio Leiva – drums, percussion (1987-1989)
• Martín “Tucan” Bosa – keyboards, backing vocals (1998-2009)

Legacy and Influence

Attaque 77 has been a cornerstone of the Argentine punk rock scene, influencing numerous bands with their melodic approach and socially conscious lyrics. Their dedication to themes such as animal rights and social justice has resonated with fans and inspired other artists in the genre. With a strong discography and memorable hits, Attaque 77 continues to be celebrated as one of Argentina’s most significant punk bands.

Trivia

• The band’s name, Attaque 77, is inspired by their aggressive punk sound and rebellious attitude.
• The song “Hacelo Por Mí” is considered one of their signature hits and is highly popular among fans.
• Attaque 77 has a dedicated fan club known as Regimiento de Pecadores (Sinners Regiment).
• Ciro Pertusi, former lead vocalist, left the band in 2009 to form his own group, Jauría.
• They have performed multiple times at the iconic Estadio Obras in Buenos Aires.
• Their album Amén! (1995) achieved high sales and critical acclaim.
• Attaque 77’s song “Donde las águilas se Atreven” is praised for its lyrical depth.
• Mariano Martínez, the current lead vocalist, has been with the band since 2009.
• The band has addressed various social issues through their music, including animal rights and anti-war themes.
• Attaque 77’s music has been featured in several Argentine media and cultural projects.