Shortly after forming The Coronados, guitarist Charlie Lorenzi decided to leave his native town of Buenos Aires to take the Detroit garage rock scene by storm.
Lorenzi settled in Ann Arbor in 2002, with only a band name, a few guitars, and his independent label, No Fun Records, in hand. Upon entering the States, Charlie instantly added drummer and longtime friend, Claudia Leo to The Coronados roster. In late 2003, bassist Melody “Licious” Baetens (The Sirens) joined the team, allowing for the possibility of a live set.
The three-piece embarked on their first tour in 2004, a jaunt through South America, causing a stir in Argentina and Uruguay. In 2007, the addition of vocalist and three-ring circus, Rick Lappin (The Ruiners) rounded out the band.
Over the past year, The Coronados have been busy in the studio, finishing up their debut record with audio engineer and former Detroit Cobras bassist, Jeff Meyer. Now, with a CD release through No Fun Records due this fall and an international tour in the works, The Coronados look forward to rocking the Woodward Dream Cruise Day Party on Saturday, August 16, at the New Way Bar in Ferndale.
The Coronados’ bassist Melody Licious caught up with the Metromix between rehearsals to discuss the excitement of being a part of this year’s Dream Cruise.
How would you describe The Coronados to someone who has never heard the band?
We’re a straight up rock 'n’ roll band with a really fun lead singer. Rick (Lappin) always puts on a show. We’ve been playing as a band in Detroit for a while, but we’re still getting our name out there. At this point, we’re ready to get more serious with the band and our record (debut). We love Detroit rock and we’re glad to be a part of it.
What do you think about the Woodward Dream Cruise?
Any local event that gets people out in Detroit is a positive thing. It amazes me how excited people are about the Dream Cruise, especially at a time when gas is $4 a gallon and SUVs are considered to be evil machines. It just goes to show you that people are able to put the politics involving cars aside and enjoy taking part in the community.
The Coronados are making their Dream Cruise debut this year. How do you feel about that?
We’re a little nervous about playing the Cruise, but what better way to be involved with such a cool event than to play it? We’re excited to have the opportunity to perform in a family friendly atmosphere. Since we’re playing in the middle of the day, and our show is free, people who wouldn’t normally have the chance to see us can stop into the New Way and check us out.
Are there any drawbacks to playing in the middle of the afternoon?
There is such a different vibe during the day. We’re used to playing in dark, smoky bars at midnight. During the day, when people aren’t drunk yet, you really have work to keep them entertained. (Laughs) We really need to be on the ball.
What is the benefit of playing a day party, versus playing at one of the Dream Cruise’s outdoor stages?
The New Way Bar has been hosting their day party for years. They book 10 local rock and metal bands to play all day long on the Saturday of each Cruise weekend, from noon to 9 pm. The benefit of playing the New Way party is that there is a good representation of Detroit rock bands. The bar is also climate controlled, so whether it is blazing hot outside, or pouring down rain, people have somewhere to step out of the elements and hang out.
The Coronados are set to play the New Way Bar’s Dream Cruise Day Party at 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 16. Admission is free to the public, doors open at noon.
