I would like to inform you that there is a musical revolution underway in San Antonio, TX. I am not insinuating that San Antonio has the new market cornered, but I am certain more of you will begin to look to our big-city-with-a-small-town-attitude in coming years to satisfy your craving for genuine artistry.
It is only fitting then for me to begin this chronicle by introducing you all to Jen, Phanie, and Nina, better known as Girl in a Coma- three Chicanas who match their passion for music with an inspiring work ethic most would do well to take note of upon deciding to enter the music business as a performing musician/band.
When I first met the girls I could only barely see the potential they possessed. In my own defense, I was young, in my late teens and more concerned with high-school than being inspired by the future hometown heroines. Still, from the first time we shared the stage, something about witnessing Nina, the then 14-year-old front-woman’s powerful vocal delivery over GIAC’s steady groovin’ rhythm section made a lasting first impression. It was a mere twinkle of what is becoming an undeniably beautiful exploding star of hope all too important for our community. They remain visible ever since; on handbills and venue marquees, in local magazines, on promo materials scattered at record parlors, etc. The headlines have continued to progress, depicting adventures with Morissey in Europe and fateful encounters with Joan Jett which led to a recording contract with her Blackheart\Records.
As peers, I have only had growing respect for them. Thankful to be closer than colleagues, my intuition led me to observe their nature. I notice their familial bond and a keen understanding of what it takes to create your own success (a do-it-yourself approach, die-hard promoting, and relentless efforts to tour). This is an apparent recipe for success, but only when coupled with an appreciation for all they have gained and a sincere humility do you begin to understand: THIS ISN’T BUSINESS. IT’S PASSION.
Asi es como hacemos en San Antonio. Con corazon.
And, it’s only just beginning still. To commemorate this next chapter, the musical cosmos channel through the girls a catapulting sophomore album, “Trio B.C.” The LP is available on vinyl, CD, and digitally, online, in record stores, at their gigs. It was officially released this past Tuesday. I have been enjoying it for nearly two months and will likely be listening to it throughout my lifetime whenever I get the urge to remember how it all started.
Presently, they are kicking off their first headlining US tour with support from Miss Derringer. 50+ dates in a matter of 60 days. Spending recent months getting to know the girls very well and even more so in these last three weeks leading up to their greatest journey yet, I can tell you that they are oblivious to the understandably unfathomable bright future about to overtake them. Come to think of it, save their ever-expanding loyal fanbase, the general public is oblivious as well.
Soon, however, that will all change. If this last couple of weeks was any indication, with a sold out album release show/ tour kick-off we were fortunate to be a part of, video shoots, recent media blitz, and a few in-store appearances, you will all continue to hear about these lovely Latina ladies for years to come.
