Nikki Clan

Baja, California/Mexicali-based rock group Nikki Clan had barely formed when they were met with enormous industry success in 2006. Bandmembers Alberto Espinoza (bass), José Antonio Dabdoub (guitar), Ángel Vázquez (guitar), and José Carlos Fausto Monroy (drums) had been performing under the name Los Piltrafas when they were contacted by producer Abelardo Vázquez; a veteran of Mexican rock staples like Reik, he possessed both the connections and vision necessary to take the group to international acclaim. With a vision for developing the group's raw, natural sound into something more marketable, Abelardo Vázquez introduced Los Piltrafas to vocalist Yadira Gianola. The young musicians felt an instant chemistry, and Nikki Clan were born. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez