San Diego-based alternative rock band Los Saints has just dropped their debut album, Certified, through ENCI Records. This album follows their 2022 EP, Welcome To Confusion, which got a lot of love from music magazines like Alternative Press and Under The Radar.
Los Saints was founded by cousins Angel Mariscal (vocals, guitar) and Emiliano Garcia (drums), along with their friend Gianluca Exposito (guitar), who has since left the band. They started making a name for themselves in their hometown of Chula Vista, CA, with sold-out shows and good reviews from places like the San Diego Union Tribune.
Their new album, Certified, showcases their unique style, blending indie, alternative, and rock. Angel describes Los Saints as more than just a band—it's a big part of their identity. Growing up in a Mexican-American family, Angel was influenced by his mom's music from Tijuana and his dad's American music, mixing classic rap and bands like Cage the Elephant.
Los Saints' name reflects their heritage, inspired by the Day of the Dead in Mexico. They wanted a name that mixed English and Spanish, so they chose Los Saints.
Certified was recorded with producer Keith Cooper at Wildflower Recordings in L.A. The first single, "Faded," features a bold bass line and punchy drums, with Angel's hazy vocals asking, "I don’t want you to look at me when you’re faded?" Another track, "Never Said," combines a catchy riff with a disco beat and falsetto vocals.
One standout song, "If Everything Goes," mixes glitchy keys with acoustic guitar, expressing feelings of self-blame after a breakup. "Doctor" has a dark, off-kilter vibe, while "Hard" talks about toxic relationships. The title track, "Certified," has a chantable chorus and shoegaze distortion, describing the isolation of being in a disapproved relationship.
After recording Certified, Los Saints added two new members: Greg Ortega (bass) and Jorge Vazquez (lead guitar). Angel hopes listeners find comfort in their music, feeling less alone in a tough world. I appreciate Los Saints' blend of indie, alternative, and rock, creating a raw and emotional sound that resonates with personal experiences and cultural heritage.
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