Although clearly inspired by Elvis, El Vez, aka Robert Lopez, has become an institution in his own right.
His act mixes Presley imagery and sound with tongue-in-cheek humor, Mexican cultural references, shimmying back-up singers and multiple costume changes for a show-stopping performance.
El Vez performs both original and souped-up versions of Lennon and Bowie tunes, as well as classics from the King. “In The Ghetto” becomes “En El Barrio,” and so on. It’s a routine that should presumably have had a short shelf life. But Lopez has been at it for more than a decade, with dozens of worldwide releases to his credit.
The reason for his success is obvious: Lopez turns in one of the best rock ‘n’ roll shows you’ll likely ever see. On a regular night, it’s a sweat-inducing workout, with a crack band transitioning seamlessly from funk workouts to all-out rockers. However, stage magic happens when El Vez hits the road with his annual holiday extravaganza.
This year’s jaunt, dubbed “My Mexican Merry Mex-Mas,” will hit The Casbah Saturday, Dec. 23. And with its blend of Elvis, Christmas and monologues, the show will be the party of the year.
The holiday is clearly special to Lopez, as he’s released three Christmas-themed albums to date. The latest disc, “Sno’ Way Jose,” perfectly showcases his sense of humor “” the classic “White Christmas” is reworked and titled “Brown Christmas.” While that tune is sure to be on the set list for the Casbah show, the biggest treat for fans will be the chance to pose before the concert for a picture on “Santa’s” lap. The experience is complete with a special photo folder in which to store the memento, but the offer is only available for the first 10 people who sign up on Lopez’s Web site.
It’s been a particularly windy road for the man behind El Vez. Longtime followers will remember him as a guitarist with seminal Chula Vista punk band The Zeros during the late ’70s. The group became known as the Mexican Ramones, acquiring a rabid fan base, jamming with Patti Smith and touring with John Cale. Only three singles were issued during the original band’s lifetime, but following a post-breakup compilation in 1991, the band toured and began recording again between El Vez projects. The reunion actually lasted longer than the band’s initial run but came to an acrimonious end in 1999 following the release of the group’s album “Right Now.” During the ’80s and after The Zeros, Lopez spent time with punk band Catholic Discipline and rockers The Johnnys.
While most musicians’ pasts add up to their present, that is not the case here. Lopez’s creation is wholly unique, taking diverse elements and molding them into a character that has taken on a life of his own. His audience’s devotion is evidenced by the 2003 opening of fan and noted restaurateur Stephen Starr’s El Vez restaurant in Philadelphia. Lopez himself has no direct connection to the eatery “” he has visited “” though the idea of fine Mexican cuisine served in his name in the nation’s birthplace must bring a tear to his eye.
If you catch just one holiday-themed show this year, make it El Vez’s. This concert offers something for just about everyone. Whether you’re a fan of Spanish rock, big productions, rock ‘n’ roll, Elvis or just like a little humor with your music, a night with El Vez is an experience that’ll have you talking into the New Year.
El Vez plays Dec. 23 at The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd. For more information, visit www.casbahmusic.com.