The third edition of the popular Échale Series starts with a returning powerhouse: Ozomatli, the nation’s ultimate Latin fusion party band. The L.A.-based combo played at the Pearl in 2011 and they’re back to launch the first of three Échale events for 2013. It should be a terrific party, but make no mistake: their Latin/hip-hop fusion is danceable and fun, but Ozomatli can also rock (I hope they also play some children’s songs from their solid Ozokidz album). The music starts with Tucson, Arizona’s Sergio Mendoza y La Orkesta and their alternative version of ’40-’50s jazz-flavored mambo-rock. Heads up: get ready for Colombia’s Bomba Estéreo and M.A.K.U. Soundsystem (April 5) and Morrissey/The Smiths tribute band Sweet & Tender Hooligans and New Mexico’s ranchera-meets-Beatles Mariachi Mystery Tour (May 10) starring in the next two parties. Free, 5pm Sunday, Pearl Amphitheatre, 100 E Grayson, atpearl.com. Check out our full online calendar of upcoming events here: calendar.sacurrent.com.
