With over three decades of shaping Peru’s alternative rock scene, Mar de Copas is now embracing a new frontier. The iconic band, known for their poignant lyrics and melodic sound, arrives in Miami as part of their first U.S. tour, a journey already marked by sold-out shows and emotional reunions with fans abroad.
This moment is more than just a tour; it’s a milestone in the band’s path to international recognition. Recently honored as cultural ambassadors through the Marca Perú designation, Mar de Copas is taking their distinct fusion of pop rock and post-punk influences to cities across the U.S., with Miami’s show already nearing full capacity.
Ahead of their much-anticipated performance, Too Much Love spoke with guitarist and founding member Manolo Barrios, who shared reflections on their evolution, enduring connection with fans, and what Miami can expect from this historic concert.
How do you feel about starting this new international chapter with a U.S. tour, especially after the success in Europe?
Excited, thrilled, full of hope, and very busy.
What does it mean to be recognized as Marca Perú and officially become cultural ambassadors for the country?
It’s one of our greatest achievements. To have our work serve as a reflection of the art being created in Peru is more than we ever imagined.
Your melodic and melancholic style has resonated across generations. How has your sound evolved over the past 30+ years?
While it might seem like a consistent sound, we’ve gradually transitioned from a distinctly ’80s influence to something more vintage—whether it's in ballads or rock—while always staying true to our genre.
Songs like “Un día sin sexo,” “Suna,” and “Entre los árboles” are pivotal in Peruvian rock history. Which track best captures the band’s essence?
For our audience, different songs define different eras, maybe “Mujer Noche” early on, then “Suna,” and later “Un día sin sexo.” But from the stage looking inward, we feel most connected to more intimate tracks like “Canción,” “LB,” or “Siglo XX.”
Many of your U.S. fans are part of the Peruvian diaspora. What’s that emotional connection like during concerts abroad?
It’s a 100% emotional and sentimental reunion. It feels like seeing family again after many years.
What can fans expect from the setlist and stage design on this tour? Any new material or a focus on your classics?
They can expect a comprehensive setlist that spans our entire history, with strong visuals, lights, and sound, but most of all, a lot of energy.
The video for “La Máquina del Tiempo” was part of your 30th-anniversary celebration. What role does the visual element play in your musical narrative?
It’s a key part because our lyrics aren’t narrative but cryptic, so visuals help communicate the feeling behind the songs.
After so many years in music, what’s next for Mar de Copas? Any new material or collaborations in the works?
We’ll wrap up the tour with a big homecoming concert at Lima’s Parque de la Exposición, followed by a national tour and the release of new songs, which we’re already working on.
Mar de Copas performs in Miami as part of their U.S. tour celebrating over 30 years of music. Tickets are nearly sold out. For more information, visit mardecopas.pe.
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