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Big Pollo Bring Chichafunky to UK Festivals as Live Album Builds International Momentum
- Melodrift Team
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
Peruvian funk pioneers Big Pollo are continuing their international rise this summer as they bring their signature Chichafunky sound to some of the UK's biggest festivals. With performances confirmed at Tropical Pressure Festival and WOMAD UK, alongside club dates in London and Edinburgh, the Lima-based band are introducing more audiences to their vibrant fusion of Latin funk, Afro-Peruvian rhythms, psychedelic cumbia and soul. The tour follows the release of their new live album, Live In The UK, which captures the energy that has made the group one of Peru's most exciting live acts.
Founded in Lima in 2005 by vocalist Renato "Tato" Elera, Big Pollo have spent more than 20 years developing a sound that has become uniquely their own. Joined by Milky Fresh on bass, Jose Timarchi on guitar and Bruno Timarchi on drums, the band coined the term Chichafunky to describe their colourful blend of groove-driven funk and the psychedelic sounds of Peruvian chicha. Often compared to "James Brown meeting Chacalón in a futuristic Latin Funkadelic universe," the band's music celebrates Peru's rich musical traditions while embracing contemporary influences.
Big Pollo have built an impressive international reputation through extensive touring across Europe and the United States. Previous appearances at Boomtown Fair and a successful UK tour celebrating the band's 20th anniversary helped establish a loyal British following. Their upcoming performances will also feature guest appearances from Gregorio Merchán, Carlos "Kanti" Saldaña, Omar Ríos and Las Chanchas, adding even more depth to an already dynamic live show.
The newly released Live In The UK offers fans a snapshot of the band's celebrated stage performances. Featuring favourites including "Chicha Supersónica" alongside a lively reinterpretation of The Beatles' "Come Together", the record showcases the musical chemistry and infectious energy that have become Big Pollo's trademark. It also follows acclaimed releases including La Chichafunky and San Bartolo Chill, further expanding the group's growing catalogue.
As interest in global sounds continues to flourish across the UK festival scene, Big Pollo arrive with a performance that blends culture, musicianship and celebration in equal measure. With more than two decades of experience behind them and momentum continuing to grow, the band are actively seeking further UK festival and venue opportunities while sharing the message that has defined their journey: "Peru dancing with the world."
Tour Dates:
10 July — Tropical Pressure Festival, Cornwall
25 July — WOMAD UK, Wiltshire
29 July — The Fox & Firkin, London (Big Pollo ft. Las Chanchas)
31 July — Stramash, Edinburgh (Big Pollo ft. Las Chanchas)
