Formed in Quito in 1999, Guardarraya is an Ecuadorian rock band known for blending progressive, electronic, and alternative rock with Andean instruments and folkloric elements. Founded by Álvaro Bermeo and Mateo Crespo after an earlier project fell through, the band officially came together with bassist Andrés Pacheco and released their self-titled EP in 2000. Their debut full-length Chistes y Roces followed in 2003, marking the start of a prolific and experimental career. After several lineup changes, they joined forces with members of Can Can in 2006 to form Guardacan, a collaborative ensemble that led to a celebrated live album in 2008. That same year, they released Surtidos Selectos, a compilation of rarities and alternate takes. Their 2009 studio album Quitarán di áhi brought them local acclaim with tracks like “Lero Lero” and “1537,” helping define their signature mix of visceral lyrics and urban folklore. After a hiatus, they returned with Me Fui a Volver in 2017, supported by the fan-favorite single “La Diabla.” Regulars at Quito Fest, they’ve also shared stages with major Latin rock acts and were invited to open for Caifanes in 2019. During the pandemic, they released Vivo y Pandémico following their participation in the virtual edition of Argentina’s Cosquín Rock.
