I have not created any characters nor have I changed my name. The last time I did, the band turned 20, and I said, "I'm going to stop changing my names. I'll present myself as Rubรฉn Albarrรกn." During that time, I was visiting certain communities and one of them baptized me with my birth name. So I said, "OK, I've received it, now I will use it," and I have. If another one comes, then it will come, but it hasn't arrived yet and I'm fine for now.
Ruben Isaac Albarran OrtegaPersonally, the songs that I've written, when they arrive to the Cafรฉ Tacvba group , they become something more. Some begin to take spiritual aspects, political aspects, aspects that I had not initially put into the song. I think that's something magical that happens in our creations.
Ruben Isaac Albarran OrtegaThat song "Futuro" was written by Quique Rangel, the bassist. I wouldn't know how to explain the song, but each would have to give their own interpretation. If the lyrics generate that message for you, then that's good.
Ruben Isaac Albarran OrtegaEach one of us in Cafรฉ Tacvba is a composer and we come to the group with songs written out, musically and lyrically. Occasionally, there's a collaboration between us. But each song is almost always written by one of us, and then we all figure out the arrangements. Up until now there hasn't been a moment where the composer explains the song and says, "I want to say this or that." It's always open for interpretation.
Ruben Isaac Albarran OrtegaAt the end of the day, these are issues that need to be discussed: femicides, among other things - immigrant rights, women's' rights, indigenous people's rights, animal rights, Mother Earth's rights. If we don't talk about these topics, then we have no place in democracy. It won't exist. Democracy isn't just voting; it's relegating your rights.
Ruben Isaac Albarran OrtegaThere's definitely a melancholic ingredient in our concerts in the United States versus in other places. Many times people feel far away from their place of origin, from their traditions, from their people. And in a way, Cafรฉ Tacvba's music brings them memories. It seems to connect them with all that they miss, because the concerts are very emotive and have lots of energy. We're very fortunate to have our music connect in that way.
Ruben Isaac Albarran Ortega