Nestled in the heart of Mexico City’s Colonia Roma lies a music studio with a remarkable tale. Born from necessity, this studio became an oasis of creativity for Camilo Lara, a passionate musician. “I needed space, a refuge from the constant hum of mariachis and cumbieros filling my life. So, I built this studio,” Camilo recalls. Just as the studio was completed, the pandemic struck, leaving him alone for two years, crafting music in solitude. Yet, these years were far from idle. The studio became a crucible for creativity, hosting a myriad of projects spanning genres and media. “We’ve recorded music for blockbuster films like ‘Coco,’ ‘Black Panther,’ and ‘Thor,’ working on everything from traditional instruments to synthesizers.”
Camilo’s journey in music is deeply intertwined with his Mexican heritage. His project, Mexican Institute of Sound, blends traditional Mexican music with contemporary sounds. “I’ve always been fascinated by what would happen if Mexican music were treated as a malleable entity, something you could stretch and play with while preserving its essence,” he explains.
La Lotería is more than just a game; it’s a cultural icon. The challenge was to make it sound as lively and vibrant as it is.
This fusion found a captivating expression in a recent project involving “Suerte.” Filmed entirely in Mexico City using an iPhone, “Suerte” is a poignant short film that centers around heart-crafted artistry. It stars Iván Cornejo, María Zardoya from The Marías, Eden Muñoz providing the voice, and the legendary actor Luís Felipe Tovar. The narrative follows Iván’s journey as he navigates through a creative block, aided by iconic Lotería characters like La Sirena, La Muerte, and El Pescado.
Directors RJ Sanchez and Pasqual Gutierrez, both talented Mexican-American filmmakers from Cliqua, helmed the project. Their approach incorporated a variety of techniques, including animatronics, scale models, and fully analog sets, showcasing a blend of innovation and tradition.
The challenge was to capture the sound of the lottery, translating its visual chaos and excitement into music. “La Lotería is more than just a game; it’s a cultural icon. The challenge was to make it sound as lively and vibrant as it is,” says Camilo.
La Lotería, a traditional Mexican game, features colorful cards depicting various characters and objects. The game is often played at family gatherings and community events, with a caller announcing the cards drawn, adding to the excitement. Camilo aimed to encapsulate this dynamic atmosphere in his music.
“The big question was, what does La Lotería sound like? How do you capture the essence of a game that’s so visual and filled with so much energy?” To achieve this, they incorporated traditional Mexican sounds and instruments, blending them with modern elements to create a unique auditory experience. “We wanted the music to be as vibrant and thrilling as the images, incorporating elements of Mexicanness that would resonate with audiences.”
As they prepare to showcase fragments of the short film, Camilo emphasizes the collaborative nature of such audiovisual projects. “Creating music for film is about serving the drama and the scenes. Music becomes another actor, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing it.” The studio’s cutting-edge Atmos sound system, capable of creating an immersive audio experience, plays a pivotal role. “It’s like moving from black and white to color TV. Instead of two speakers, you have forty, and it changes everything.”
As the short film begins, I was transported into a world where traditional Mexican elements like organilleros and whistles are given new life through music. Each scene is meticulously crafted to blend visuals and sound, creating a harmonious and captivating experience. Camilo’s enthusiasm is palpable as he discusses the project’s intricacies, from the initial script to the final mix.
Finally, I asked about the scope of the project. “It’s a lengthy process, involving many people—actors, directors, production teams,” Camilo responds. The dedication and hard work of all involved are evident in the final product, a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration.
As the session concludes, Camilo’s passion for their craft and commitment to honoring their cultural roots shine through. The studio stands as a beacon of innovation, a place where tradition and modernity coexist in a symphony of sound and vision. The “Suerte” short film is not just that; for me, it’s a celebration of Mexican culture and the timeless joy of music, brought to life through the lens of a modern music artisan.
Watch “Suerte” here:
