At barely 19 years of age, Mauri Tapia seems destined for greatness. Under the moniker “Los Retros”, the Oxnard-born Californian (who shares a birthplace with Anderson Paak), born from Mexican parents is a one-man band. His reputation grew on Youtube and so did his fanbase in souther California. In his genes: 70s soft rock, and Latin-American pop music so cheerful it’s practically kitschy. Los Retros might as well be a reference to the underground Chilean group Los Ángeles Negros. Signed to Stones Throw Records, no doubt by someone with taste, Mauri seems like a lighter version of Mac DeMarco. Much like the senior Canadian musician, he truly shines on catchy ballads, written with cheap guitars and vintage keyboards. Completely addictive. © Marc Zisman/Qobuz