Mojiganga
Mojiganga originated as a Colombian ska punk and ska-core band hailing from Medellín. Established in 1995, the group has been an influential part of Colombia’s underground music scene during the 90s and 2000s.
Formation
The band was founded by Miguel Cardona (Drums), Mauricio Agudelo (Keyboard/Saxophone), Guillermo Garcia (Guitar/Voice), and Juan Zuluaga (Bass) during their high school years at the Fray Rafael De La Serna School in Medellín.
Discography
- De Las No Alpacas (1996 – Never released)
- Estupidas Guerras (1997)
- Señalados (1999)
- No Estamos Solos (2001)
- Todo Tiempo Pasado Fue Peor (2004)
- Mojiganga (2007)
- Ardiendo Otra Vez (2010)
- Atomico (2013)
- En Vivo 2017 (2017)
Band Members
Current Members
- Miguel Cardona: Drums (Founder, 1995–Present)
- Mauricio Agudelo (Mauro): Tenor Saxophone and Vocals (Founder, 1995–Present)
- Daniel Puerta: Trumpet and Vocals (Founder, 1995–Present)
- Natalia Villa: Alto Saxophone (Founder, 1995–Present)
- Guillermo Garcia (Guillo): Guitar and Vocals (Founder, 1995-2001/2017–Present)
- Jorge Conde: Bass (2011–Present)
- Alejandro Jaramillo: Guitar and Vocals (2013–Present)
Former Members
- Federico Lozano: Guitar and Vocals (1997-1999)
- Juan Zuluaga: Bass (Founder, 1995-2011)
- Rogelio Acosta: Guitar and Vocals (2002-2013)
- Anibal Zapata: Guitar (2002-2013)
History
Early Years and Formation
Miguel, Guillo, and Mauro initially played in the Fray Rafael’s high-school band, Ensamble Cofrades. Discontented with the Franciscan order’s style, Miguel and Guillo sought to form a ska-punk band, recruiting Mauricio and Juan, who was learning to play bass. Natalia (alto saxophone) and Daniel (trumpet) joined soon after, solidifying the lineup.
Initial Recordings
In 1995, they recorded their first album, De Las No Alpacas (1996), but its production quality led them to abandon its release. In 1997, they collaborated with Jorge Ceballos to record Estupidas Guerras, marking their official debut released under PUKA! Records.
Rise to Prominence
Señalados (1999), their first CD release, gained significant acclaim, selling over five thousand copies and earning nominations at the Shock Awards. The album featured hits like “A Mis Amigos” and “Relajación.”
Evolving Sound and Success
Their fourth album, No Estamos Solos (2002), marked a departure with the inclusion of international tours. Todo Tiempo Pasado Fue Peor (2004) combined their first two albums. Mojiganga (2007), a double album, showcased diverse elements of ska-punk-reggae and hardcore-metal. Ardiendo Otra Vez (2010) paid tribute to Kortatu, and Atomico (2013) marked a shift towards punk and hardcore. The band announced retirement in 2014 but reunited in 2016.
Recent Years
In 2017, they released En Vivo 2017, a live album capturing their performance at Arena Rock Fest. The band remains active and has announced plans for a new full album by 2020.
Noteworthy Achievements
Mojiganga has shared the stage with international bands such as The Offspring, NOFX, Less Than Jake, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Molotov, A.N.I.M.A.L., 2 Minutos, La Mosca, Café Tacuba, and Attaque 77, among others. They have featured on significant international compilations, including Puro Skañol (1998) and Mutante Vol. 1 (2004).
Conclusion
Mojiganga’s journey is marked by a vibrant musical evolution and a resilient presence in the Colombian punk and ska scene, showcasing their enduring passion and commitment to their craft.
