Principe Q - “La Gallina”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 2

Pairs Well With…El Dusty, Mexican Institute of Sound, MLKMN

Calling his music “Screwmbia”, also the name of Principe Q’s debut trio of EPs, the Corpus Christi, Texas DJ/producer takes a chopped and screwed approach to traditional cumbia music. Psychedelic filters are applied to what would be sounds of the past and turn them into something wholly new and weirdly vibrant. While this seems like wild experimentation, Principe Q’s music is surprisingly warm and cohesive, a fusion artist with a precise touch and creative instincts. While mostly down-tempo and and dreamy, Principe Q’s beats hit especially hard, rattling bass over the distant, reflected Mexican melodies. (Kevin McStravick)