Laroga Stay Sane Clips
Where legends like Bob Marley and Bradley Nowell left off, the band Laroga picked up-- with some picks, a drum, and a lot of soul. It’s hard to believe that their smooth reggae, “catching waves†sound originated inside a city 20 miles away from the beach. Laroga began in 2006 when two high-school buddies, Alex Caldeira (lead guitar) and Nick Salazar (drums), began jamming for fun in Alex’s house garage, located on Calaroga Avenue. It wasn’t until bass player, Ryan Pappas, joined the duo that Laroga became the energetic, vigorous band that is known today. Although it is true that Laroga inspires a laid back, party-under-the-sun (or anywhere, really) feeling, they are also known for incorporating some punk, awesome riffs, and even hip-hop. Many of their lyrics are enthused with themes of social consciousness, like their songs “Charlie Sheen,†“Alive,†and “Stay Sane.†Other songs showcase the band’s originality and amazing instrumental skills. A Laroga performance is easily identified by the large crowds of people singing along, dancing, and bonding with a smile and perhaps a beer at hand. There is a special, electrifying vibe that is created by the interaction between the musicians onstage and their fans. Laroga has a following of many faithful listeners and it is this relationship that makes the band even more unique. Over the years, Laroga has been requested to play at house parties and various venues throughout the East Bay, such as Kimo’s in San Francisco, Time Out in Concord, and The Bistro in Hayward. The band has even had the opportunity to travel and has played further down south, in San Luis Obispo. In 2008, Laroga participated and received the Honorable Mention award at H.A.R.D.’s Battle of the Bands. Most recently, Laroga has released their first EP in February 2009. They continue to practice on Calaroga Avenue, to record in studios to produce enticing new rhythms and rhymes, but most importantly, to generate a large fan-base.