Live music

Something that Roca does exceptionally well, especially given that it’s quite a small city, is high quality live music. Really high quality. Where I come from we do get visiting bands who rock your tits off, but the domestic talent is not a patch on what you get here.
I don’t hang out in Mal de Amores as much as I used to because I don’t have a hairy chest, too much gold jewelery or a posh car, but the times I have been there and been treated to some top notch jazz (which I normally hate, but when it’s played with passion right in front of you, what can you do?) or some bizarre blues:latin fusion are too many to mention.
Just as Roca seems to foment an inordinate amount of jealous anger, so does it attract, inspire and nurture great musical talent. We’re very lucky to have the INSA here – it’s a tribute to the city, and something to be proud of. We need more good venues, though. I went to Bajo Caracoles last night to see Sad Puppet – fantastic grungy rock and a long, powerhouse performance by a band who really know their shit. The stage was ok and the sound was fat and juicy, so big up to Bajo. There just aren’t enough places like that.
If only we could build on what we have in order to inspire even greater diversity and experimentation among young musicians emulating those at the INSA – and encourage audiences to be less conservative about what they appreciate – I think Roca could become a nationally recognised haven for live music, even internationally. Wow, wouldn’t that be something!

Well done Roca. See, I’m not COMPLETELY negative