After more than two decades of refining their distinctive blend of Latin funk, soul, Afro-Peruvian rhythms and psychedelic Peruvian cumbia, Lima-based outfit Big Pollo are setting their sights firmly on the UK festival circuit this summer.
Formed in Lima in 2005 by Renato “Tato” Elera, the current line-up includes Tato on vocals, Milky Fresh on bass, Jose Timarchi on guitar, and Bruno Timarchi on drums. The band are the originators of Chichafunky, a vibrant fusion of groove-heavy funk and the colourful, psychedelic sounds of Peruvian chicha. Often described as "James Brown meeting Chacalón in a futuristic Latin Funkadelic universe", the band's sound has become a cultural movement of its own, celebrating Peru's rich musical heritage while connecting with audiences far beyond its borders.
Across seven studio and live releases, including La Chichafunky (2023), San Bartolo Chill (2026) and the recently released Live In The UK (2026), Big Pollo have consistently showcased a sound built for communal celebration. Their music combines infectious rhythms, soaring melodies and deep-rooted cultural influences into a live experience that transcends language barriers and invites audiences directly onto the dancefloor.
Having toured extensively throughout Europe and the United States, the band have developed a reputation for high-energy performances that blend musicianship, showmanship and pure joy. Previous appearances at Boomtown Fair introduced UK audiences to the world of Chichafunky, while their 2025 UK tour, part of the band's 20th anniversary celebrations, further cemented their connection with British audiences.
This summer marks another significant chapter in Big Pollo’s international journey, with confirmed appearances at Tropical Pressure Festival and WOMAD UK. The band will also feature guest appearances by artists Gregorio Merchán, Carlos “Kanti” Saldaña, Omar Ríos and Las Chanchas. These performances arrive at a time when interest in globally inspired, genre-crossing live music continues to flourish across the UK festival landscape.
The release of ‘Live In The UK’ serves as a timely snapshot of the band's celebrated stage presence. Featuring fan favourites including 'Chicha Supersónica', and a vibrant reinterpretation of The Beatles' classic 'Come Together', the album captures the energy, spontaneity and musical chemistry that have defined Big Pollo's live performances for over twenty years.
More than simply a musical style, Chichafunky reflects the cultural intersections that shaped modern Peru, the meeting of Andean and Amazonian traditions, urban migration, psychedelic art and contemporary Latin identity. Big Pollo have become one of the genre's leading ambassadors, carrying this uniquely Peruvian sound to audiences across continents.
With over twenty years of experience, a growing UK following and a live show that continues to evolve, Big Pollo are actively seeking additional festival, venue and cultural event opportunities throughout the UK. Their performances offer something increasingly rare within today's live landscape: a genuinely distinctive sound, a strong cultural identity and an atmosphere of collective celebration that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.
Upcoming UK Dates10 July — Tropical Pressure Festival, Cornwall
25 July — WOMAD UK, Wiltshire
29 July — The Fox & Firkin, London (Big Pollo ft. Las Chanchas)
31 July — Stramash, Edinburgh (Big Pollo ft. Las Chanchas)
"Peru dancing with the world."
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