Better Luck

Pioneering Latino punk band The Plugz formed in Los Angeles in 1977 with frontman Tito Larriva, drummer Chalo Quintana and bassist Barry McBride. After debut album Electrify Me, sophomore set Better Luck saw McBride replaced by John Curry of The Flyboys; now with better mastery of their instruments, Larriva and Chalo steered the sound into new wave stylings, aided and abetted by guest horns, harmonica, and keyboards. Yet, the band was still a critical force pushing against societal inequalities, as heard on the caustic “American,” and El Clavo Y La Cruz” reminded  that the core of the group was 100% Latino. A great LP!