Blasst

Today's episode brings us a holiday treat! Charlie Vela has recorded and produced hundreds (if not thousands) of records by artists from the Rio Grande Valley and beyond over the past 20 years. His involvement in the Rio Grande Valley music scene began as a musician, most notably as a founding (and lasting) member of RGV emo/rock giants The December Drive, and most recently under the solo moniker, Calavera, with which Charlie composes shadowy electronic cumbia jams. In recent years, Charlie has also entered the realm of documentary filmmaking alongside his longtime friend and partner, Ronnie Garza, with the production of As I Walk Through The Valley, a vibrant film about the history of the RGV's music scene. Recently, Charlie has opened up a new studio space in his hometown of Weslaco, Casa Panchita, where he continues to record and produce musicians. Honestly, I haven't even hit the tip of the iceberg with Charlie's accomplishments here, so I recommend you check out our conversation where