"Stearns County Pachanga Society -- 'Viva la Pachanga!'"

CD review by Karl Leslie in the St. Cloud Times published Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004

If you are a fan of the local music scene and you haven't picked up the Stearns County Pachanga Society's disk, "¡Viva la Pachanga!" well, all I can say is what are you waiting for?

The Pachanga Society is a collection of some of the area's most talented musicians, and its album contains an excellent and diverse set of Afro-Cuban based busic.

The disc has the same effect as one of the band's live sets. That is, the music just makes me want to move, or maybe even grab my egg shakers and join in. Without question, the disc will add a nice bit of diversity to any music collection. My favorite tunes include the band's originals "Nube Blanca" and "Born in Babylon" as well as "La Negra Celina" and "Guantanamera."

If you'd like to participate in a meeting of the Pachanga Society, the group is planning an "almost unplugged" show March 24 at Pioneer Place on Fifth. Even though it should be different from a bar show, the band is hoping to get good audience participation and the floor will be open for dancing.

You can also expect a suprise visit from friends of the band who may sit in for a tune or two.

Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 the day of show and are available at the Electric Fetus.