Self-defined as “rock mestizo” (“mongrel rock”), Cuatro Pesos de Propina combine rock, ska, reggae, and Uruguayan popular music in a unique amalgamation of styles that defies categorization. Composed of Gastón Puentes (vocals/guitar), Gastón Pepe (percussion), “Tato” Bolognini (drums), Rodrigo Baleato (sax), Miguel Leal (trumpet), Martín Moretto (keyboard), Rodrigo Calzada (bass), and Joaquín Carriquiry (guitar), the band’s genesis traces back to Montevideo in the early aughts, consolidating its lineup around 2004. After making the rounds in the Uruguayan capital’s vibrant independent scene for a couple of years, the group made their official debut with the independently-released Se está complicando (2007), which enjoyed moderate success on both sides of the Río de la Plata. By the time Juan (2010) came out, Cuatro Pesos de Propina were already touring extensively both locally and internationally, sharing stages with established acts such as No Te Va Gustar, La Vela Puerca, and Argentina's Todos Tus Muertos. With Francisco Fattoruso behind the console, they released Surcando (2013), which featured guest appearances by Andrea Echeverry (of Aterciopelados fame) and the legendary Hugo Fattoruso. Following the release of the live album Muerto Pero Vivo (2015), the band returned in 2019 with La Llama, their self-produced fourth album.
