Without borders
Sante Fe's The Illegal Aliens bring high frequencies to Durango

Without borders

The Illegal Aliens

Alex Vick - 05/19/2022

I spoke with Santa Fe-based band The Illegal Aliens about how the scene and playing music helps to keep them grounded. The group consists of Gabe Lucero on lead guitar, Zack McAlister on rhythm guitar, Gabe Pacheco on bass, Kenny Brito on drums, and Eric James Gutierrez on vocals.

“The best part is being able to express my emotions and opinions in a way that bring joy to others,” Gutierrez said about his experience writing and playing. This is where the art of music becomes engaging and can create a welcoming exchange between the bands and the audience. And in this conversation between players and viewers, the idea of being an outcast can be diffused. 

McAlister noted how it took time to be welcomed into the punk scene as a full-fledged member. “At first, I noticed people were slightly cautious to book us, but I feel like that really turned around once we showed them what we were capable of live,” he said. “It was definitely something that had a lot of trial and error to be where we are now.”

The Illegal Aliens started in high school in 2015, prompted by a teacher, Gutierrez said. “One day, senior year, Gabriel Lucero recruited me and Kenny to start a band. After a few years of cycling through members, we got our good friends Gabriel Pacheco and Zack McAlister to join in, and we’re still going strong.”

Starting the band at a young age and choosing members that created real harmony allowed the band to thrive, according to members. “The only real obstacle we faced was self-improvement,” Gutierrez said. “Once we all settled in and found our rhythm, everything came together. Being a group of best friends always helped with that.”

However, there were a few rough spots as well. “There were definitely a few times when I felt like an outcast; that’s just part of growth though,” Gutierrez said.

Sometimes it takes such challenges to create victorious results. From a hard journey to finding acceptance, it’s these experiences that help us grow and learn, and music is a great vessel for this. 

When ideas are funneled through lyrics and a driving beat to punch the message home, listeners feel connected – no longer an outsider but welcomed in via high voltage frequencies. This energy can feed off itself, bringing unity and a new level of amplitude, Gutierrez said. “Having friends and known fans in the crowd always elevates our moods and performances to a new level.”

Come welcome The Illegal Aliens to Durango on Sat., May 21, at 8 p.m. when they play The Hive, 1150 Main Ave. They will be playing alongside other New Mexico-based bands, The Mommy Milkers and Scarlet Night.

The mosh pit and dance floor will be open. We all live here, and it is our job and labor of love to welcome in those who feel like an outcast and estranged. McAlister noted how he’s looking forward to once again playing in Durango.

“I feel like every show is special to me in its own way,” he said. “I remember the last time we were in Durango, and it ripped.”

Join in another ripping night, free from musical and artistic oppression; a place for us all.

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