Chacalon Y La Nueva Crema (Vinyl) – Chacalon Y La Nueva Crema

This 1981 album marks the debut of the most revered and iconic figure in Peruvian chicha: Chacalon. His music combines fuzz- and wah-wah-drenched distorted electric guitars with tropical percussion and even elements of huayno. This passion for electric guitars also fueled his admiration for the British band Cream–and, of course, Eric Clapton–which ultimately inspired the name of his band: La Nueva Crema. His songs speak to the working classes who migrated from rural areas to the major cities in search of better employment opportunities and portray the hardships they faced. The lyrics tell stories of heartbreak, drunken nights amid everyday struggles, and marginalization–common experiences in the poorer communities of Peru. Chacalon became a cult figure among the most disadvantaged sectors of Peruvian society, a devotion that remains strong years after his death. The album is essential listening for anyone interested in psychedelic cumbia and the roots of Peruvian chicha. Our reissue preserves the album’s original artwork as it appeared on Discos Horoscopo and includes liner notes by genre expert Victor Zela (La cumbia de mis viejos).