Villanos

Originating from Buenos Aires’s Villa Celina district, the Argentinean group Villanos advanced from regional recognition to worldwide recognition through a retro-rock style and a traditional approach to craftsmanship. The lineup features Niko Villano on lead vocals and guitar, Mini Villano handling guitar and backing vocals, René Villano on bass, Santi Villano behind the drums, and Vare Villano contributing keys, guitar, and backing vocals. Their first public appearance took place in April 1995, after which they became fixtures at numerous rock venues throughout the city. National tours followed in 1996, accompanied by features in prominent rock publications such as Clarín. Universal issued the group’s first album, Sacate Todo!, in 1999; the recording received extensive airplay across Argentina and secured a high-profile slot opening for Kiss at River Plate Stadium. Their second album, No Disparen!, arrived the following year and earned them a national tour alongside Attaque 77 and Babasónicos. In 2004 Niko Villano produced the band’s third album, Villanos al Poder, which appeared on an independent label. Though commercial results were modest, the project attracted the attention of Warner Music Argentina, leading to a major-label contract. Under that arrangement the group recorded its fourth studio album, Superpoderosos, which included the single “Sin Me.” Warner Music Argentina then remastered and reissued the band’s complete catalog in 2005, exposing Villanos to fresh listeners across South America. The renewed visibility brought invitations to major events, among them Pepsi Rock, Gesell Rock 2006, and Cosquín Rock 2006. Their 2007 album Contacto maintained a strong chart position and achieved the band’s highest sales figures to date.