NORTEC

• Vortex Theater, Friday, 11:00pm

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Nortec (norteño + techno) is an aesthetic concept invented in Tijuana by the Nortec collective, a group of musicians and graphic artists influenced by elements of northern Mexican popular culture, border culture (cultura norteña) and technology. Nortec records, loops and samples from live performances of norteña and tambora music, the two most popular styles of music in the northwestern region of Mexico. The samples are then tinkered with in a computer and recast as new compositions. Cinematexas is proud to feature Nortec DJs Bostich and Terrestre as part of this year's Eye+ear program.

Bostich

In 1988, Ramon Bostich recorded two albums, participated in various compilations in Mexico's ambient techno field, and became one of the main national acts in the first raves held around the country. His track "Polaris," described as a "totally aggressive tune for the dance floor, with norteño breakbeats and thumping tuvas," earned him the title "Godfather of Nortec." Today, the track is one of the key sounds of the Nortec movement.

Terrestre

Mexican electronic artist Terrestre draws on popular music from northern Mexico and modern minimalist electronica, and marries deep classical instrumentation with the bubble and glitch of digitalia. He is a key figure in Nortec, of which he became a member in 1999.