Albuquerque Reggae-rock band Vibestrong has been hitting the stage and the studio pretty hard during the three years they’ve been active. Last night at midnight they released their newest single “Rise” on all major streaming platforms, and they’d love you to help them celebrate at the Launchpad (618 Central Ave. SW) tonight starting at 7 p.m. during their single release party. Singer and keyboard player Rick Gonzales says he’s been writing music for a long time and he’s excited about the rapid growth Vibestrong has enjoyed over the last year or so. He says people seem to connect with the band’s positive message these days, which is refreshing because we could all use some positivity in our lives right about now.
“It’s really conscious music,” Gonzales says. “We sing about uplifting yourself and one another. The guys in the band were kind of making fun of me about this last album. They said, ‘Oh, we can’t do too many songs that are about rising and lifting,’ but hey man, that’s just the vibe that’s been going lately.”
Gonzales says he comes up with a general premise for the music and lyrics, but along with bandmates Anthony Gallegos (bass), Glenn “Buddah” Benavidez (guitar) and James Sanchez (drums) Vibestrong writes their songs together. Each member adds their personal flair to the music. You can’t avoid catching a strong positive vibe from Gonzales while talking reggae with him, and he’s more than willing to share the band’s lyrics. He says drummer James Sanchez — you might also know him by Jimmy Djembe — is a talented rapper who can sing and play drums simultaneously during live performances. Sanchez drops a hard-hitting verse on “Rise” that explains the song and the band’s philosophy perfectly:
“Filling my cup up to the brim until it overflows and we can all swim,” Sanchez sings.
Hometown favorites Burque Sol will kick off the Launchpad show in proper Albuquerque reggae-rock fashion followed by touring act Dozy Dubs from Idaho. Sanchez says the night will be a dance party as well, with DJ Primo Swift holding it down between sets. Vibestrong plans to do some touring this summer, including a huge show in May as part of the Rising Vibes Music Festival in Durango.
“Rise” was recorded at 17th Street Recordings by producer Lewis Richards and features background vocals from special guests Dread Kennedy and Roxy Ortiz. The single is available on all streaming platforms so take your pick here.
You can peep a cool promo video for “Rise” shot in Albuquerque here:
Vibestrong Single Release Party
with Dozy Dubs, Burque Sol and DJ Primo Swift
March 21, 7 p.m.
Launchpad
618 Central Ave. SW
$10