Los Vega

Los Vega bring son jarocho to the Musical Instrument Museum on Monday, October 19, at 7 PM. If you're not familiar, son jarocho is the traditional music of Veracruz, Mexico, and this is a family ensemble that's been playing it for more than 25 years.

There's a deep family history behind the group. For more than six generations, the Vega family has kept the style alive, playing it in the fandangos of their own communities and on international stages. That's a lot of ground to cover—from local gatherings in Mexico to concert halls around the world—and they describe their work as carrying forward a tradition rooted in the coastal regions of Veracruz. It's music that comes from a specific place and a specific lineage, and they're the ones bringing it here.

They're known for a few things in particular: strong cultural roots, refined musicianship, and a dynamic stage presence. That last part is worth keeping in mind, because son jarocho isn't just something you sit and listen to—it's a living, breathing tradition that's as much about the performance as it is about the sound. When they talk about their roots, they're talking about a style that's been passed down through generations of their own family, so what you'll hear is something they've lived with since long before they ever stepped on a professional stage.

The concert is at the MIM Music Theater in Phoenix, and tickets run from $38.50 to $44.50. It starts at 7 PM on Monday, October 19.