ABOUT
Money Chicha is an Austin, Texas based group featuring members of the Grammy-award winning Latin orchestra Grupo Fantasma and its offshoot funk outfit Brownout which performs a fuzzed-out, reverb-drenched and percussion-heavy style of music inspired by the sounds of Peru and Colombia in the 60s and 70s. This style of music, sometimes called “chicha” music, is known for its infectious Latin beat, its psychedelic, surf guitar pyrotechnics and its melodies influenced by the indigenous culture of the Andes mountains.
The group’s sound is derived from the exhilarating syncopations of congas, cowbell and timbales, the gritty tones of combo organs and vintage synthesizers, effects-laden guitar melodies, insistent basslines and a healthy dose of trippy effects. Money Chicha is a modern translation of this South American musical style interpreted by highly skilled veterans of America’s most vibrant music town. In their capable hands, the “chicha” genre takes on a new and unique character, guaranteed to move one to both dance and listen, entranced by the undeniable rhythms and virtuosic displays of musicality.
​
​
“Money Chicha rep this far-out style (chicha music) with mind-bending alacrity, blending in their own touches of extra fuzz and raging percussion.”
– San Antonio Current
​
“Money Chicha are sure to please those in need of some seriously danceable Latin psych-rock.”
– 98.9 KUTX
​
“a wonderful mezcla” – Pop Matters
​
“Driven by congas, cowbell and timbales we get a cheesy fondu of old synths, electric organs and effects-laden guitars that is both danceable and melodically delicious.” –Muzikfan.com
​
“Money Chicha dives into psychedelic cumbia, with great results.” –SCRP.org
​
“Money Chicha’s song will leave you breathless” – Vine Voice
“a beguiling instrumental collage, fueled by a turbulent undercurrent of vague unease.” –Austin 360
​
​