Vida Vella releases culturally rich solo album *Panorama*

Luis Gabriel Illiades, known as the drummer for Pansy Division, recently released his solo album, "Panorama," under the name Vida Vella. This marks a significant step in his music career, tapping deeply into his Mexican and queer identity. The inspiration for "Panorama" came when a friend informed him about a new recording studio in his hometown of Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. This connection to his roots sparked a creative journey for Illiades, leading to a ten-track album that blends introspective and psychedelic rock in both English and Spanish. Illiades described his aim for the album as being relatable. He touches on themes like fear, love, and identity. His music delves into the concept of "cultura fronteriza," reflecting his life in Tijuana and his experiences as a queer Mexican American. He raises questions about identity and societal expectations within his lyrics. For this project, Illiades collaborated with various musicians, including those from the group Camper Van Beethoven and the State Band of Guanajuato. They created an orchestral sound, giving the album a cinematic feel. One song, "El Chico Francés," explores youthful infatuation, while another, "Nacemos," reflects his work as a psychotherapist, addressing love's challenges during the pandemic. Illiades also runs his own label, Beso y Abrazo Records, aiming to support emerging bands in Mexico. He plans to distribute music directly in Mexican cities to help budding artists reach a wider audience. With "Panorama," he feels he has created "the album of a lifetime" and is excited for what lies ahead.