Corpus Christi, Texas- Mana will perform in Corpus Christi at the American Bank Center on February 25, 2007.

Mexico's Latin Rock Ambassador

There are many rock bands that achieve international success. However, there are but a few bands able to achieve worldwide acclaim while at the same time embodying the unique character of their country of origin. Some bands become unofficial cultural ambassadors for their homeland, representing its ideals, passions and truths all over the globe. Jamaica had Bob Marley and the Wailers. Ireland has U2. America has Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Mexico has Maná.

Since its inception in Guadalajara, Mexico in the mid '80s, before the term "Rock en Español" had ever been used, Maná's rise to global prominence has been strong and steady. Having released eight albums and having sold 18 million copies worldwide, they have become one of the most successful bands in the world. To date, they have visited more than 22 countries and have played in front of more than ten million fans. Dubbed by the Wall Street Journal as the "U2 of Latin rock," their music combines universal themes such as love, freedom, justice and environmental awareness with strong melodies and Latin and Afro-Cuban rhythms to create grooves and anthems that speak to the masses, regardless of their language.

On their latest album, Revolución de Amor (Warner Music Latina) vocalist Fher Olvera, drummer Alex González, Guitarist Sergio Vallín and bassist Juan Calleros have evolved and expanded their rock and reggae sound to include more textures, more ballads, a variety of rhythms and more songs written by three of the four band members. In songs such as "Justicia, Tierra y Libertad" "Fe" and "Sin tu Cariño," their passions are in full bloom.

Maná also does much more than write and sing about their beliefs. They have created their own foundation, Selva Negra, which employs a fulltime staff of marine biologists and workers involved in rescuing endangered turtles and whales off the coast of Mexico. The group is also in the process of organizing an ambitious reforestation plan for Mexico.

In February, the band was preparing to celebrate drummer Alex González's birthday in Los Angeles when they learned that they had just won a Grammy for Best Latin Rock Alternative Album for Revolución de Amor. On a rare break from touring, Gonzalez spoke to Playback's Erik Philbrook about Mana's secret for success and longevity.

- By Erik Philbrook

Corpus Christi Event:

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 – 8:00 PM

 TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 AT 10AM!

TICKET PRICES - $76 and $56

Tickets available at the American Bank Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, charge-by-phone at 361-881-8499
or online at LiveNation.com.