Mario Figueroa is a badass local musician in varied ways. His band Mother War features a blend of alternative ’90s rock with some ’70s heaviness, and even some Spanish influence! (Check out track “Magdalena Blues.”) He’s also a stellar solo musician, often performing acoustic singer/songwriter sets. Beyond music, Figueroa is an educator, making a difference in the lives of students.
What was the first concert you attended?
Stone Temple Pilots! I was 17 at the time when STP came down and played at Fantasy Springs Casino. Scott Weiland was still in the group and killing it!
What was the first album you owned?
I can’t remember the specific album, but it was most likely a Spanish group that was popular at the time. Cumbias and boleros were my introduction to music.
What bands are you listening to right now?
I’ve been listening to Clutch and Meshuggah before hitting the gym. Gets me a good pump! I’ve also been enjoying The Black Angels and Rival Sons as well.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
Reggaeton. I understand its appeal and its place in club settings, but it’s something I really can’t get into.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
I’m still bummed I didn’t get to see Soundgarden before Chris’ passing. I missed so many opportunities to see them when they were touring their final album. I’m still looking forward to someday seeing Alice in Chains and Santana!
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
Call me crazy, but I love Christmas music! I always have a Christmas playlist ready to go the day after Thanksgiving.
What’s your favorite music venue?
I’m not sure I have a favorite music venue. I’ve seen different artists in so many different places, and I don’t think any one venue particularly stands out.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
I’ve had the chorus of “Secret Meeting” by The National stuck in my head all day today. “And now, I’m sorry I missed you; I had a secret meeting in the basement of my brain.”
What band or artist changed your life? How?
So many bands and artists I could talk about here, but if I have to choose one, I’m going with Stone Temple Pilots. STP was the reason I got into playing rock music. Scott Weiland was the definition of a rock star, and he was the first vocalist that inspired me to sing. The DeLeo brothers also got me into the art of songwriting. Robert DeLeo got me into Motown and bossa nova.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
I’m pretty sure I could ask Carlos Santana anything, and his answer would exude pearls of wisdom. Maybe I would ask him about his spiritual journey making music.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
Tom Waits, “Take One Last Look.”
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Buena Vista Social Club, self-titled. A collection of Cuban classics played by veteran musicians. Truly an amazing listening experience and a big influence on me.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
“El Sol” by Mark Lanegan. Perfect for this summer weather.
