By Gregorio Merchán @morfoniaoficial
Editor's note: We took advantage of the atmosphere of the Hermoso Ruido Festival to ask Gregorio Merchán, drummer of Morphonia, one of the bands participating in the event, about their favorite songs in the history of Latin music and has put together a very interesting set which follows:
Full Moon Tune – Simon DiazBesides having a beautiful melody, the author's interpretation connects me to a place, to a feeling that goes beyond the lyrics.
Kill me because I'm dying –CaifanesIt's a story that has always moved me; it can be sung to anyone who isn't nearby, whether they're alive or dead, but it's a deep love, and the band's performance is impeccable.
Little breeze from Tucumán – DividedIt's one of the songs from the juggernaut of Argentine rock that delves into Andean roots. I'm struck by how the drums and bass achieve such a powerful ensemble that you don't even notice the absence of Ricardo Mollo's great guitar. The nuances, the intensity of the performance, and the masterful vocals are all perfectly complemented.
You came to me – José JoséThe vocal performance of the Prince of Song is majestic, and the arrangements and production are impeccable. It remains timeless even though this type of orchestral arrangement is increasingly rare in popular music.
Part of the air – Fito PáezFrom the album La la La, which he composed with Luis Alberto Spinetta. A chacarera that sings of death in a romantic and joyful way, a beautiful way to say goodbye to his parents.
Lake in the Sky – Gustavo CeratiIt's one of my favorite Latin American rock songs, with a drum pattern that really grabs my attention—it's underpinned by guitars very reminiscent of The Police. The lyrics are a beautiful way of describing the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. Something not easy to put into words without falling into clichés, and this isn't one of those cases.
The dance of those who are left out – The PrisonersIt is one of those songs that represents a generation and remains relevant because of its lyrics against job competition after educational competition that seeks nothing more than to separate us as individuals, turning us into victims of an unstoppable machine of inhuman economic productivity.
Maria Lando – song by the Peruvian composer and singer Chabuca Granda that versions Susana Baca y Pedro Aznar flawlessly. The landó rhythm is one of the most beautiful Afro-Peruvian rhythms, and Maria represents the hardworking woman, head of the family, who humbly, lovingly, and resignedly does her honest work to survive in a difficult world.
Sons of Tiger – VelvetyIt's a song that captivated me from the first time I heard it, and it reflects the experiences of many generations who have lived in a country at war and are beginning to see that a turning point in their own history is possible. I recorded a version of this song with my band (Morfonia) for an Aterciopelados tribute album, and it's included on our latest album.