Biography
Laghonia played a key role in the robust psychedelic and progressive rock movement that flourished in Peru throughout the closing years of the 1960s and the opening years of the 1970s. The ensemble first assembled in 1965 under the name New Juggler Sound, with its original roster consisting of lead guitarist and vocalist Davey Levene, rhythm guitarist and vocalist Saul Cornejo, keyboardist Carlos Salom, bassist Eddy Zarauz, and drummer Alex Abad. Early on the musicians concentrated on British Invasion-style pop and rock, issuing several singles in that mode, among them the 1967 coupling of “Baby Baby” backed with “I Must Go.” Their approach gradually shifted toward a tougher psychedelic garage sound reminiscent of the Nuggets era, incorporating elements of prog rock, soul, and blues-rock. When Abad exited in 1968, Manuel Cornejo stepped in on drums and the band adopted the Laghonia moniker. Later that same year they cut their debut long-player, Glue, which appeared in severely restricted pressings on the MAG imprint. Zarauz departed in 1970 and was succeeded by Ernesto Samamé; the revised configuration produced the follow-up album Etcetera, issued in 1971 and reflecting stronger influence from the progressive late-period Beatles. Following Levene’s exit, the remaining musicians brought in guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Carlos Guerrero, after which they re-formed as We All Together and delivered two albums during the 1970s that subsequently attracted a devoted cult following among serious record collectors.
Albums
