The Last Bandoleros at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville, Tennessee

Back in July of 2014. Stefani Montiel had a date in "The Big Apple" for the LULAC Convention and Exposition. Gabriel Zavala called me before our trip and mentioned that Jerry Fuentes, a friend of his, was looking for an accordion player for a show in New York City; which we would be in town for. Upon calling Jerry, he mentioned that he was involved with a project band called "Los Bandoleros". In fact, the upcoming gig would be their very first performance as a group. He told me that Emilio Navaira IV and Diego Navaira were also part of the project. I had seen them in passing through the rock scene as well as the tejano circuit. I was excited to finally meet and jam with them. Some material was sent to me and I got to work.

Stefani Montiel performing at the LULAC Convention & Expo

I had a scheduled Bandoleros practice a few hours after touching down at La Guardia. Jerry greeted me at the door. Emilio and Diego recognized me; which was flattering. Lastly, I met Derek James, Jerry's roommate who was also part of the group. The only time I got nervous was when I noticed Jerry planning to record the practice onto ProTools. The nerves were quickly replaced with exhilaration within the first few seconds. The session was really fun. I had taken some liberties with the material which was well received. As much credit as they wanted to give me, it was easy for me to groove since this particular band was simply brimming with talent.

Fast forward to the gig. It was great! The reaction from the crowd was extremely positive. Derek would periodically look in my direction and smiled as if to say, "I like what I'm hearing, Buddy!" "Pers, you freaking killed it!", Diego screamed as we got off stage. Emilio and Jerry hugged me as if we won a championship game. I wish I could describe how elated everyone was. The plan was for me to continue gigging with the group. Unfortunately, conflicts with scheduling and budgeting made things difficult. Ultimately, they went with another accordion player. Still, I was grateful to have rocked with a talented bunch at a New York City music hall.

The Last Bandoleros with Sting at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC. Photo cred: Manish Gosalia

In November of 2015, I get a call from Jerry out of the blue. The group was now called "The Last Bandoleros". He asked if I could help them with some gigs in January, February, and March. His plan was to call me early so I'd be available. Good plan. I marked all the dates and said I was good to go. Normally that's where the call ends, but instead, Jerry let me in on some big news: The band was now signed with Warner Music Nashville. WHOA! I was surprised, yet not surprised at the same time. The group had not been using an accordion player, but I was to appear for the showcases at the label's request. Once again, material was sent. Once again, I got to work.

In January, I made it into Nashville for the very first time. Warner Music Nashville had stirred up the entire town about a secret band to be revealed at 3rd and Lindsley. The place was packed with movers and shakers. Record Producer: Scott Hendricks, and President/CEO of WMN: John Esposito said some wonderful words on stage before bringing us on. The count off began, "1, 2, 3, 4…" and since the down beat of that first measure, we've all been on a ride that every musician dreams of. Over the last 6 months, we've played in Georgia, California, Minnesota, and multiple times in New York, Texas, and Tennessee. Blake Shelton shook my hand backstage and mentioned how much he enjoyed the performance. We got to play with the one and only Sting on three separate occasions. Now, on July 18th, we'll be back in Cali to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live! All I can say is, "WOW!!!"

Many of my friends and colleagues have been congratulating me, but I always stress how Jerry, Derek, Diego, and Emilio are the real geniuses. They've created a sound that is so new and inviting. All I can do is be as professional as I can possibly be. It's an honor to work with an incredible band who happen to be an even better group of guys.

Percy Cardona