NPR Music Alt.Latino: Rawayana on their new album and a changing Venezuela
Jan 21, 2026
Fofo Story and Beto Montenegro, members of the Venezuelan band Rawayana, dive deep into their new album, ¿Dónde Es El After?. They explain how the opening lyric resonates with recent political upheaval in Venezuela. The duo shares their roots in Caribbean sounds and 90s merengue house, revealing personal stories behind tracks like 'Qué Rico PR!'. With reflections on national identity, they view the album as both an after-party and a symbol of hope, showcasing joy amid crisis and a vision for a brighter future.
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Album Opener Born From Party Vibe
- Rawayana opened the album with Afro-Venezuelan tambores to recreate a house-party DJ arrival.
- Fofo Story says the angry line was a relief and left room for interpretation by listeners.
Music Interpreted As Timely Political Signal
- The opening lyric resonated widely and felt predictive when Maduro was removed days later.
- Beto Montenegro and Fofo both found the timing surreal and overwhelming amid release events.
Urban Pop Shapes The Album's Sound
- Rawayana consciously embraced Latin urban and reggaeton influences to reflect contemporary pop culture.
- Beto Montenegro framed Que Rico Puerto Rico as a minimal, sensual homage mixing Puerto Rican and Venezuelan vibes.