Sumo (band)

Sumo was an influential Argentine rock band formed in 1981 by Luca Prodan, an Italian-Scottish musician who had moved to Argentina. The band is considered a foundational act in the development of Argentine alternative rock and post-punk music.

History:

Sumo's origins lie in the aftermath of the Falklands War. Prodan, disillusioned with life in Europe, sought refuge in Argentina, initially settling in the mountainous region of Traslasierra, Córdoba. He formed Sumo initially with a loose lineup, including Germán Daffunchio, Alejandro Sokol, and Stephanie Nuttal. As the band solidified, it relocated to Buenos Aires, where they began to perform in underground venues.

Over time, the lineup stabilized to include Prodan (vocals), Ricardo Mollo (guitar), Diego Arnedo (bass), Alberto "Superman" Troglio (drums), Roberto Pettinato (saxophone), and Germán Daffunchio (guitar).

Musical Style:

Sumo's music was characterized by its eclectic blend of influences, drawing from post-punk, reggae, ska, funk, and hard rock. Prodan's lyrics, often delivered in English with occasional Spanish phrases, were often sarcastic, political, and deeply personal. The band's sound was energetic and experimental, often featuring extended instrumental sections and unconventional song structures.

Legacy:

Sumo released three studio albums: Divididos por la Felicidad (1985), Llegando los Monos (1986), and After Chabón (1987). Despite their relatively short lifespan, Sumo had a profound impact on the Argentine rock scene. Prodan's charismatic stage presence and the band's innovative music inspired a new generation of musicians.

Sumo's career was tragically cut short by Prodan's death in 1987 due to cirrhosis of the liver. Following his death, the band dissolved, and its members went on to form other successful projects, including Divididos (Mollo and Arnedo) and Las Pelotas (Daffunchio and Sokol). Sumo remains a highly regarded and influential band in Argentine rock history.