London’s vibrant music scene is once again embracing the raw energy of live bands, and at the forefront of this resurgence is the dynamic punk rock trio, Mapache. Comprised of Charlie Zafrani, Liam Rudy, and Jam Wilsdon, Mapache has been making waves with their infectious sound and captivating live performances. In this exclusive interview, the band shares their origins, influences, and plans for the future.

Having met through their shared passion for skateboarding, Charlie and Liam quickly realised they had more in common than just their boards. Liam, having been involved in numerous bands including “Lucy and the Rats” and “Johnny Throttle,” brought his wealth of experience to the table. Similarly, Jam, previously part of the band “Small Town Fiasco,” showcased his versatile musical abilities. Charlie, the lyricist of the group, had prior stints in bands like “Ten o Sevens” and “The Dub Ratz.” Together, their varied musical backgrounds formed a solid foundation for Mapache.

The band’s name, “Mapache,” meaning raccoon in Spanish, was a playful choice inspired by Charlie’s Spanish friends who often referred to him as a raccoon. A former drummer suggested the name, and it stuck. The band found it both quirky and representative of their spirited nature.

Mapache’s songwriting process is a collaborative effort. Charlie pens the lyrics and matches them with catchy riffs. Sometimes the music comes first, and the lyrics are added later, resulting in a fusion of creativity. Once the initial ideas take shape, the band refines them collectively, ensuring a tight and cohesive sound.

With a string of successful releases, including four tracks on Bandcamp, Mapache has garnered attention and built a solid fan base. Excitingly, their upcoming LP, “BATTERY POWERED,” will feature all three of their studio EPs. The band’s music is available on popular platforms like Spotify and YouTube, ensuring accessibility to a wider audience.

When it comes to visual aesthetics, Mapache draws inspiration from nostalgia. Charlie stumbled upon a book showcasing vintage toy boxes from the 1960s, which became the basis for their first release’s artwork. This fusion of old and new creates a unique and captivating visual identity.

In terms of musical influences, Mapache takes inspiration from an eclectic mix of artists, including Beastie Boys, Gorillaz, The Clash, The Damned, and Radio Birdman. The Trojan Rock Steady Box Set also holds a special place in their hearts.

Looking ahead, Mapache plans to hit the road soon, delighting fans with their electrifying live performances. Keep an eye on their social media platforms for tour announcements. Additionally, their LP release later this year is highly anticipated, and “No Front Teeth” will be responsible for its distribution.

When asked about the London music scene, Mapache expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the emergence of exciting new groups. They encourage music lovers to explore the live band scene, as it is currently experiencing a thrilling revival.

For those seeking recommendations, Mapache suggests checking out EELMEN, BIG DIPPER, and MORREADORAS. These up-and-coming bands are making waves and deserve attention.

In closing, Mapache invites fans and music enthusiasts alike to join them for a guaranteed good night out. Mark your calendars for their upcoming shows with “Eh, Mertxe!” on June 2nd at Blondies in Hackney and June 3rd at The Pipeline in Brighton. Don’t miss the chance to witness the infectious energy and irresistible charm of Mapache firsthand.

Check out all things Mapache HERE

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