Via Lactea ~ The silence. Millions of stars & the harmonic murmur of the leaves. We were that before our dawning.

 

Interview with Carlos Alvarado
 

In the early days of the Mexican Rock scene there have been few groups dedicating themselves to doing experimental music and being open to furthering their creativity. In the beginning, the original pioneers were primarily Decibel and Chac Mool both featuring keyboardist Carlos Alvarado, who also led his own group, Via Lactea (Milky Way).

This original interview was conducted in the early 1980s. Only now is it being published in English for the first time, rediscovered while organizing the Eurock archives. In the interview, Carlos talks about his ideas and his position in the Mexican rock and electronic music scene.

Q: What is your understanding of rock music?

A: Rock is music created from traditional models, from the classic or harmonic styles of music that are normally used.
 

Q: Is your music progressive?

A: Yes, I utilize sounds produced in a method outside of the norm. I also compose based on mathematics. I use natural sounds that I alter electronically, and I always have electronic theory in mind.
 

Q: Why did you select the synthesizer as your medium of expression?

A: Synthesizers are the most complete instruments as they offer infinite possibilities for producing sounds that identify with the type of music I like to make. Using five synthesizers and a string ensemble, I do not need to use and entire orchestra to create the sound I hear in my head.
 

Q: It is said that electronic music is cold, that it does not express human emotions that it is made by machines and computers so it does not come from the heart. What do you think of this?

A: It is possible electronic music can sound like that, but I believe that it depends on the composer. If one is open and tries to understand it as a manifestation of the world in which we live, and the state of dehumanization into which we have fallen, then I would talk about it in a different manner. However, synthesizers are only the instruments used. The nature of the music produced, and whether it is good, mechanical, or celestial and beautiful depends on the composers esthetic, and how he uses his electronic instruments.
 

Q: What are your main musical influences?

A: In respect to rock and electronics, I would say Klaus Schulze, Fripp & Eno and Richard Pinhas. In the area of contemporary music, there is Xenakis, Pierre Henry, Varese a/o.
 

Q: And your texts?

A: They have an orientation towards transcendence, tranquility and spiritual balance.
 

Q: On what do you base the ideas you write about?

A: Mainly my own personal feelings. I work on my spiritual development using Yoga and studying oriental philosophies.
 

Q: Why do you prefer electronic music?

A: I personally identify with it. When I play electronic instruments a liberating sensation and deep satisfaction comes over me. My music offers me infinite possibilities of expression. It creates a personal manifestation for me in the world in which I live.
 

Q: What do you think of Mexicos national rock scene?

A: At this time in our country, it is hard to detach ones self. The environment is too contaminated. Most rock and rollers are mediocre and do not worry about doing the right thing. They lack seriousness in their studies and compositions. There are groups like El Queso, Sagrado, Decibel, Chac Mool and Via Lactea + a few others existing that are taking the initiative. They are all working in the end to present their music in a serious and professional way; in addition, they are also worried about developing their creativity and unique sound, not just play vulgar, banal mainstream rock music. In the future maybe more bands will choose this way.
 

Q: What is the LP you are now working on about?

A: It will be an independent production and concept with the aid of great friends such as Jose Xavier Navar and sound engineer Franco Rosas. On the LP, Jorge Reyes, my wife Herminia and I work together. The music will feature a combination of electronic music and various acoustic instruments (flutes, tamboura, kalimba, caracoles, etc.). I am going to distribute the album in Mexico, and Internationally through Eurock in the USA.
 

[Translation by Charlie Miller]

[Photos Eurock Archives]