Indie rock from Costa Rica? Not too many music lovers believe that such a gem could exist in this Latin paradise, but thankfully, Las Robertas is showing the world that Costa Rica has more to offer than picturesque beaches. The group, led by Mercedes Oller, Monserrat “Monse” Vargas, and Franco Valenciano, released their debut full-length album, titled Cry Out Loud, in 2010, but they’re still seducing listeners with their unique sound that’s certain to brighten up our summer. Las Robertas unites fuzzy, shoegaze guitars, delicate vocals, and easy, breezy melodies that transform from ethereal to wildly passionate in minutes, resulting in a soundtrack that’s perfect for the upcoming steamy season. While Las Robertas could be easily be confused for being too cool for school indie rockers, they’re actually a welcoming new change in Latin music, which often dominated by tropical merengue or hip-hop fueled reggaeton. Finally, audiences looking to just kick back can have some fresh tunes to call their own. We chatted with Vargas about Costa Rica’s music scene, creating a major buzz in the US, and whether their beloved pooch, Perrito Caliente, will hit the road with them this year.
nocheLatina: How did Las Robertas get started as a band?
Monse Vargas: We all came from different places. The common denominator was Mercedes. She wanted to start a band. She told Franco, a friend from school. Then she told Lola (who left last year) and me when we started hanging out.
nocheLatina: When did you realize that it was time to get together and rock out as an all-girl band, plus one guy?
Monse Vargas: I don’t think we should be called an all-girl band. I mean, at first it looks like it, since Franco decided to dress up as a girl just to make fun of that, but we’re really not. That was around mid 2009.
nocheLatina: I read that Walter Mercado is one of your idols.
Monse Vargas: Yeah, there was a time when we were obsessed with him. The guy has some pretty good advice and a great sense of style.
nocheLatina: It’s interesting that Las Robertas came into the scene around the same time that Costa Rica elected its first female president. What are your thoughts on female artists and leaders in your country?
Monse Vargas: Well, I guess the participation of women in politics and as leaders could be compared to women in music as far as being treated equally as men. The way I see it is that there are female artists that make crappy music, as well as men and all the way around. It’s the same in politics, if that makes any sense.
nocheLatina: Talk about Cry Out Loud. Looking back, what were some of the surprising things that everyone in the band discovered about themselves while recording this album?
Monse Vargas: I think that the common thing I noticed in all of us is that we are hard workers, and that this is something that we really want to do forever.
nocheLatina: How does it feel to create such a huge buzz in the states?
Monse Vargas: I don’t think any of us realizes how big or small the buzz is. We just keep moving along to make the best of that. Ultimately, we want people to feel while listening to our music. Most of the bands and artists I love have had an impact on me. They’ve helped me get through some stuff. I guess that’s our goal as far as reaching audiences goes.
nocheLatina: Why, in your opinion, there aren’t more Costa Rican indie artists getting recognition in the states?
Monse Vargas: We try to point out in every interview we have that there are some amazing bands in Costa Rica. I have no idea why people don’t pay as much attention to them. Maybe because it’s such a small place, but the talent here is huge! I recommend that you check out local bands, like Niño Koi, Zopilot, Monte, and TGW!
nocheLatina: What’s been inspiring Las Robertas lately?
Monse Vargas: Everything! We’ve being traveling quite a bit, sharing experiences, meeting new people, and practically living together.
nocheLatina: How has it been exploring New York City?
Monse Vargas: Franco and I visited Brooklyn for the first time. Meche had already been there before. It is beautiful. Brooklyn is everything you expect and more.
nocheLatina: What does summer 2011 hold for Las Robertas?
Monse Vargas: Right now we’re in the process of making new songs and arranging some of the ones we already have. As far as I know there’s an EP coming out soon, but we’ll properly announce it once it’s confirmed, most likely after the mini European tour.
nocheLatina: How does Perrito Caliente feel about touring?
Monse Vargas: Haha, I’m sure he’s thrilled. He’s not coming though. I haven’t seen him in a while. I’ll pay him a visit before we leave.
