For a band that has been touring for so many years it seems amazing to hear new inspiration coming from such tour hardened musicians.
Various addictions and a fast paced life style were taking a toll on Tijuana Cartel. The boys from the band have reinvigorated themselves with a new outlook to music and new tracks to match.
"We'd almost forgotten about the music," remarks Paul George, the band's lead vocalist and guitarist. "We got so caught up in this whirlwind of touring and late night antics that it was beginning to effect what we could achieve as musicians."
Daniel Gonzalez, the band's percussionist and manager says, for him, playing in front of a few thousand people can be a nerve wracking experience. "I found a few tequila shots could settle the nerves, but now I'm planning on reaching new heights in my playing by practising sobriety."
"At least on stage!" he adds with a smirk.
Tijuana Cartel's new attitude seems to have had a positive effect on their musical direction. There is still plenty of the party flavour in the music but there is now a much more serious musicality and a quite sexy theme permeates the live sets. Each song flows seamlessly into the next and provides a groove that builds throughout their entire show.
Tijuana Cartel have carved what is one of Australia most successful independent musical careers. They have spawned a sound that is truly unique and managed to convert a growing crowd into devoted fans. Their recent single release gained over 40,000 YouTube hits in its first few days of release and the band have played at almost every major festival in Australia including a headline spot at Peats Ridge Festival over New Years.
You can catch a glimpse of the new and improved Tijuana Cartel on Feb 1st at Sydney's Oxford Art Factory.
Supported by Wild Marmalade + George & O'Sullivan
Doors open at 8pm.
Full playing times available 1-2 weeks out from gig by emailing settimes@oxfordartfactory.com.