Los Mocochetes is a Chicano Funk band from the La Alma/Lincoln Park neighborhood of North Denver. On their Facebook page they say “This colorful cast of characters fuses thoughtfully brazen, socio/politically charged song lyrics, groovilicious melodies and high-energy stage antics to create an immersive experience. Much like a machete, which can be used either as a tool to build or a weapon to kill, they have chosen to use their music to inspire and encourage positive social change, and they have a ton of fun along the way!” It’s protest music to dance to. Los Mocochetes dropped their first album, Mucho Gusto, in 2021.
HOW HAS LIVING IN NORTH DENVER INFLUENCED YOUR BAND AND YOUR MUSIC?
Los Mocochetes is a by-product of North Denver’s connection to the Crusade for Justice. We are influenced by Denver’s culture rooted in civil rights activism and community engagement since the 60s. The north side is always going to have a special place in our hearts!
With some of us in the band Growing up in North DENVER we have been blessed to be surrounded by some of the best bands in town to some of the best restaurants in town and some of the best culture the city has to offer . Although North DENVER is changing it will always have a big Chicano history presence. We all recognize that if it weren’t for their contribution to DENVER we as a group we would never be here. We thank all the elders for paving the way for us to speak our mind and play music for the People.
Diego Florez bass player, Eli Montoya bass
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO PLAY AND HANG OUT?
We enjoy playing at the Aztlan theater and Su Teatro. We love playing at Ophelia’s, Levitt pavilion and the Civic Center park!
Some places I like to hang out are La Raza park, Platte River, 16th street, Red Rocks and Bar 38. Jon Rubio Drummer
WHAT ARE SOME FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS THAT YOU ALL CARRY FORWARD?
Our families always celebrate Dia de Los Muertos. We always try to carry this tradition and other ceremonies that have been passed down to us. We also want to pass on a culture of music so our children can learn to express themselves through this vehicle we all love so much. And we want to continue to teach our families that love will always trump hate that we can defeat evil with kindness and community. Jozer vocals
WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO FEDERAL BOULEVARD AND WHAT IS COOL ABOUT IT?
We all grew up on Feds. There has always been so much culture on this street that artist and musicians are drawn to it for inspiration. Whether we are cruising on a Sunday afternoon or driving down to get some PHO or some tacos this street will always be connected to Los Mocochetes Jozer vocals
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO CREATE YOUR MUSIC AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE BAND?
Our music is a reflection of our community. We write about the issues our people face everyday. We are inspired by the discrimination we face, but also by the love we receive. We are inspired by our ancestors and the ones who paved the road for us to freely express ourselves. We are inspired by the students we work with and their passion for this arts fuels us daily Jozer Vocals
