Los Saicos

Peruvian proto-punk band

Los Saicos were a Peruvian garage rock band that formed in 1964 and are often credited with helping to lay the groundwork for punk music. The band consisted of Erwin Flores (vocals), Rolando Carpio (guitar), César "Papi" Castrillón (bass), and Pancho Guevara (drums). They are best known for their raw, energetic sound and their hit single "Demolición." Despite their short-lived career, with the band disbanding in 1966, Los Saicos left a significant mark on the rock scene in Peru and have since gained a cult following internationally. Their music was characterized by its aggressive style and rebellious attitude, which was quite innovative for the time and place they were operating in. Although they did not achieve widespread fame during their active years, retrospective appreciation for their music has grown, and they are now recognized as pioneers of the garage rock and proto-punk genres.