Motel

Mexico City band Motel isn't interested in just being "nice." Previously stuck somewhere between the delicate acoustic pop of Camila and the emo-influenced pop punk of Panda, they're starting to make some noise on the Latin alt pop circuit.

Originally a duo, Motel was founded in 2000 by guitarist Guillermo Méndez and singer Rodrigo Dávila Chapoy – son of Mexican TV personality Paty Chapoy. In 2002, the pair recruited their rhythm section, José Damian (drums) and Rubén Puente (bass), from the touring band of Timbiriche alumnus-turned-pop-rocker Benny Ibarra. In 2006, two years after signing to Warner Music, Motel released their self-titled debut. Produced by Aureo Baqueiro (Sin Bandera, Natalia LaFourcade) and Jay De La Cueva (Moderrato, Fobia) the album featured Dime Ven, a driving track with jangly guitars and a shamelessly romantic, pop chorus that – unsurprisingly – topped the charts in México. On Olvidame, Chapoy layers more catchy melodies over a pulsing bassline.

Last year, after touring México, Argentina and Spain – opening a few shows for Miguel Bosé – Motel reunited with producer Baquiero to work on their sophomore release. Titled 17, the album was named one of the "most anticipated releases of '08" by Billboard magazine, alongside records by The Mars Volta, Nas and Lil Wayne. The band flexes its rock muscles on lead single Y Te Vas, sounding a bit like harder U2 with vocals en Español.

With new songs as well as a video and live show featuring visuals influenced by Daft Punk and/or, possibly, Battles, it appears Motel isn't banking on its softcore reputation to keep fans entertained. Before producing 17, Chapoy insisted the band wasn't looking to make a carbon copy of its debut: "You just have to make the best album that you're capable of creating, without worrying if it's going to work or not, and choose songs that excite you."