A short band interview about their influencers, their music back in the 80's and what they are working on now, directed by musician Guillermo Gómez Álvarez.
The Band’s Story
The MDs shine in the holy trinity of adrenaline, libido, and rock & roll - a potent fusion that underpins their new wave psych sound, with pulsating, raw, unapologetic vigor.
In a world filled with Rubik's cubes and video games, The MDs emerged as trailblazers, bringing forth an extraordinary approach to 1980s rock. With irresistibly catchy sing-alongs, tantalizingly naughty synths, and moody guitar riffs that sent shockwaves across the island's rock-hungry stages and reverberated through nearby galaxies. A true pillar of Surgeon Records' prestigious lineup, their groundbreaking album "Brain Damage" was unleashed upon the world in 1980. This transcendental work, their local magnum opus, houses a kaleidoscope of multidimensional lyrics that traverse from whimsical juvenile experiences to enigmatic perspectives in a post-apocalyptic dystopic universe.
Pioneering preachers of the acclaimed high school hymns, "Brain Damage" and "1981," they swiftly claimed airtime on local radio stations immediately after the album's release. This cosmic exposure propelled them from the radio airwaves to the pulsating heart of the local rock circuit.
The legendary original lineup featured lead singer Richard D'Lima, virtuoso lead guitarist Rick Rivera, multi-talented Tatito Requena on vocals and guitar, thunderous basslines of Rene Cardona,
ethereal keys of Rey "Rex Arthur" Rivera, and unstoppable beats of Rigo Collazo (also known from Millo Torres y el Tercer Planeta). Enchanting melodic voices of Maria Luisa Pagán, Silvia Rico, and Milly de la Torre elevated their sonic tapestry beyond mere music.
Today, their cosmic journey continues with mesmerizing Dr. Ivel on bass, explosive Dr. Cherry Bomb on lead vocals, and rhythmic virtuoso Fernando Rodríguez (from Alterego, Papaya Station) on drums and vocals. These musical visionaries traverse time and space, spreading their sonic surgery to future generations.
"Our New Wave Psych sound merged with a punk-out attitude has indelibly inscribed our name in rock and roll history. The fervor remains unyielding as we infuse fresh lyrics and punchy scents into the air. Diagnosis? MD-itis; cure? More Brain Damage." - Rik MD.
Step into The MDs' universe, as it converges in an electrifying symphony. Brace for a journey through sound, time, and emotion, where music is the elixir of everlasting euphoria and succumb to their irresistible raw sonic prowess.
The MD's: Then and Now
PROFILES
Rik Bossman
guitar/vocals
RikMD stands as a vital pillar of the original founding members, instrumental in giving birth to the iconic masterpiece "Brain Damage." In the face of a fierce clash between "cocolos" and "rockeros" during the early 80s, Rik fearlessly embarked on his journey to form a rock band that defied conventions. Driven by an insatiable thirst for adrenaline, he sought to create original material that stood out from the crowd, delivered exclusively in English. To this date Rik Bossman continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
Rex Arthur
keyboard/vocals
A revered member since 1980 and the blood brother of Rik, Rex stands as the band's ambassador and ultimate devotee. He vividly recalls their meteoric rise, a testament to one of the purest DIY stories in Puerto Rican rock history. An ardent lover of keyboards and their pivotal role in genres like rock n' roll, new wave, and urban styles, Rex's passion for music knows no bounds. With an unyielding connection to vinyl music and his following DJ years. With each note he strikes, Rex Arthur leaves an everlasting imprint on the band's sound, enriching their sonic voyage with keyboard magic and soulful vocals.
Dr IVEL
bass
A valued member since 2012, Ian found his musical kinship with Rex, leading him to The MDs' captivating realm. Entranced by their old-school, punk-out groove, he quickly became an essential part of the band's fabric. With a demeanor exuding quiet confidence and ingenuity, Dr. IVEL showcases his bass techniques, proving to be an invaluable asset to the team.
His unique style reveals a penchant for deep bass distortion, drawing inspiration from legendary bassists Geezer Butler and John Entwistle. Dr. IVEL's rhythmic wizardry lends a mesmerizing foundation to The MDs' new found sound.
DR CHERRY BOMB
lead vocals
A force to be reckoned with since joining in 2012, Dr. Cherry Bomb ignites the stage as the band's vocalist extraordinaire, already renowned for his role with local rockers Ongo. Eschewing formal music training or performance schooling, Dr. Cherry is a raw, unfiltered voice shredder who pours his heart and soul into every electrifying performance.
With an explosive, manic persona, he leaves no stone unturned, sweating out every last drop of bodily fluid as he unleashes his passion on stage. Dr. Cherry takes immense pride in his pursuit of iconic styles like Van Halen and Deep Purple, channeling their timeless energy and charisma. Brace yourself for a vocal journey that will reverberate in your soul long after the music fades away.
Fernando RodrÍguez
drums/vocals
As the band's very own Dave Grohl, Fernando has seamlessly blended into the MDs family since early 2013, making his mark as a remarkable multi-instrumentalist. Alongside his role as lead singer and guitarist for the esteemed local band AlterEgo, Fernando's rhythmic prowess behind the drums and captivating vocals have become the heartbeat of The MDs' sound.
With influences ranging from the timeless melodies of The Beatles to the experimental allure of Radiohead and the raw power of Puya, Fernando's musical palette knows no bounds. Yet, above all, he revels in the rockin' good times that flourish with The MDs, forging a bond that goes beyond the music.
Prepare to be captivated by Fernando Rodríguez's where every beat resonates with pure rock magic.
Live Session @ Rik's Photography by Sylvino Edward