Zappe Cats discuss new rock EP, Venezuela’s music scene in interview

The Zappe Cats, a vibrant rock meets post-punk trio consisting of Luis Irán (vocals/guitar), Lucas Paredes (bass), and Ozzie Perez (drums), recently unveiled their latest EP MISU MISU, featuring six compelling and captivating tracks. The band’s music is a fusion of reverberating guitars, energizing basslines, and catchy melodies that have propelled them into the spotlight. Songs like “Dog Punk”, “Catnip”, and “Black Cat” showcase the playful and symbolic nature of their music.

In a recent interview with Earmilk, The Zappe Cats discuss their musical journey, their Venezuelan roots, and their serendipitous meeting in Miami. Formed in Miami in 2023, the trio had previously been part of Venezuela’s vibrant rock scene, playing in various established bands before relocating to Miami. Initially, they started jamming cover songs for fun, which eventually led to the creation of new original tracks and the recording of an album as they navigated their way through the city’s music scene.

MISU MISU, the band’s latest EP, is described as a playful and unconventional exploration of myth, resistance, and feline rebellion. The title, inspired by a term used in Latin America to refer to cats, sets the tone for the record. The EP features a range of tracks from the mysterious “Black Cat” to the Oasis-esque love song “Miles”, the paranoid dystopia of “Dogpunk”, and the melodic nod to bands like Queens of the Stone Age and Television in “A Good Time”. The EP concludes with an acoustic version of “Catnip”, offering a different perspective on the track.

When asked to describe The Zappe Cats in three words, they chose “Unpolished, Strange, Catchy”, reflecting their unique blend of rawness, quirkiness, and infectious hooks. Drawing on their diverse musical influences, including The Beatles, Ramones, Buzzcocks, Oasis, Queens of the Stone Age, and Nirvana, The Zappe Cats create a distinct sound that resonates with their collective inspiration.

Reflecting on their experiences performing in South Florida venues like Gramps, Respectable Street, Kill Your Idol, and Propaganda, the band shared a memorable story of a show where Luis’s guitar amp malfunctioned, leading to an impromptu performance that captivated the audience. Looking to the future, The Zappe Cats have upcoming shows in Florida and are in the early stages of songwriting, experimenting with new ideas and sounds that will shape their next musical evolution.

Overall, The Zappe Cats’ journey is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and passion for creating music that defies boundaries and resonates with audiences. Whether you’re listening to MISU MISU on the go or immersing yourself in its intricate layers late at night, The Zappe Cats’ music promises a dynamic and engaging experience that leaves a lasting impression on listeners.