Vibrant rock music in Costa Rica

Guitarist Playing Rock Music

Costa Rica may be known for its vibrant folk music and Latin music scenes, but a unique brand of modern rock music is also thriving in the Central American country.

Since the 1990s, Costa Rican youth have helped create a local style of rock music, and a variety of groups have used the genre to relate to the country's musical and cultural heritage in numerous ways. Some groups blend inspiration from local Latin beats and popular British groups like Pink Floyd, Queen and the Beatles to craft songs that campaign against armed and domestic violence, while other groups have attracted large followings by combining traditional folk stylings with musical techniques taken from contemporary styles like rock and jazz. Many songs that draw on folk music address common themes of life in Costa Rica, including the experience of life in a small town and longing for the past.

Costa Rican Rock Groups

Popular Costa Rican rock groups include Gandhi, Malpais, Evolucion, Tango India, Suite Doble, Alma Bohemia and Kadeho.

Other forms of rock music are also popular in Costa Rica, and the country has a growing heavy metal scene. Well-known metal bands that were founded in Costa Rica include Advent of Bedlam (previously known as December's Cold Winter) and Katharzys.

Rock music is often included in many of Costa Rica's more traditional music festivals, but several other celebrations exist that celebrate the genre in particular. The country occasionally hosts large festivals that draw thousands of visitors with performances from both domestic and international rock groups. The Festival Imperial, for example, featured appearances by world-renowned artists like Jamiroquai, Sting, the Smashing Pumpkins and Duran Duran, while Rainforest Aid Costa Rica 2009 raised awareness and money for the rainforests of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula with performances from many local groups.

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Popular Venues

One of the most popular venues for rock music events in Costa Rica is the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa Ayma, also known as Saprissa Stadium. The arena is capable of holding 24,000 spectators and is one of the largest venues in the country, and its high capacity means that it frequently hosts performances from internationally popular bands. Artists like the Black Eyed Peas, Carlos Santana, Shakira, Bon Jovi, Green Day and Aerosmith have all graced the stage of Saprissa Stadium.

Music lovers can also catch some international favorites at the National Stadium in the La Sabana park, a newer venue that is fast becoming the go-to place for live music in Costa Rica.