Totimoshi — Mysterioso
Totimoshi is a Californian band that was formed in 1997 by Antonio Aguilar (guitar and vocals) and Meg Castellanos (bass). They’ve mostly made a name for themselves in the States thanks to constant touring, as well as releasing a couple of recordings. First, a demo produced by Billy Anderson (Sleep, Neurosis) and then their self-titled debut full-length. In 2002, came Mysterioso, produced by Fudge Tunnel’s Alex Newport. The album only got a proper release in Europe a year later. By now, Totimoshi have already release a new album (so far States only). And 2004 started in great fashion for them: they got a new drummer (yet again) and were asked by The Melvins to open for them on their 20th anniversary tour.
The first striking thing about Mysterioso is that it really sounds like riding on a Harley. Leather boots, sun glasses, denim trousers, no fear, if it’s too loud, you’re too old… Add to this that they master something that most rock band would die for: the groove. Oh yeah, the groove. The almighty groove. One that makes your right leg move in a different direction than your left, one that makes your butt shake, on that makes you punching in the air, one that makes you headbang like a stoned freak. Oh, yeah! Fuck, yeah! The guitar sound is thick and dry, the bass rumble and echoes through your whole body and the drummer is a real powerhouse. Yeah, Totimoshi, they are a fucking tight unit. Of course, The Melvins are not far, I also hear some riffs à la Duane Denison (Jesus Lizard, Tomahawk). But this is meaningless: Totimoshi only speak for themselves. They crush, and it feels good.
Too many fucks or fucking in this review? Well, you never get enough fuck in a lifetime. And this music is fucking good. Props to Conspiracy for giving a proper European release to this extremely enjoyable album…