Inside Arriba La L: An Interview With Genre-Bending Band Ladrones

There is no easy category for Ladrones—and the Guadalajara group would not have it any other way. Blending crushing nu-metal guitars, trap flows and regional Mexican melodies, Ladrones have carved out a sound that reflects both their hometown and their musical roots.

Formed in 2021 by Alzada Records founder Alan Ledesma, guitarist and producer José Macario and rapper Zxmyr, the group has named its hybrid style “Flow Pesado.” After releasing Flow Pesado in 2024 and Mexican Pesado in 2025, Ladrones are preparing to take their vision further with Arriba La L, arriving Aug. 28 via Rise Records.

From Guadalajara to “Flow Pesado”

The name Ladrones began as part of a larger creative concept. The band wanted an identity they could explore through its music videos, stage outfits and live performances—one that complemented the street-level energy of hip-hop.

For new listeners, Ladrones describe themselves as “a fusion of genres that represents Mexican culture.” Guadalajara’s musical history naturally shapes that fusion. Known as the birthplace of mariachi, the city is also home to a thriving Spanish-language rap industry and influential rock and pop acts like Maná and Belanova.

Those different traditions meet inside Ladrones’ music. The band’s influences include Mexican groups such as Resorte and Control Machete, while Zxmyr grew up immersed in urban music and Mexican rap. His solo career eventually brought him to Alzada Records, where a collaboration with Macario transformed from one rap song into the foundation for an entire band.

Finding the Connection Between Genres

Rather than forcing metal, trap and regional Mexican music together, Ladrones begin with the fundamentals of songwriting. A track may start with one of Macario’s guitar ideas before the band builds lyrics and additional production around it.

“We try to make a song that could sound good in any genre,” the band explained. “That way, we know it is going to be a good song.”

Their process depends on identifying what each style shares, then using the musical language and textures that make those influences recognizable. Macario’s nine-string guitar gives the songs their heaviness, while Zxmyr’s delivery keeps them connected to Mexico’s urban-music culture.

Raising the “L” Together

The title Arriba La L grew directly from the band’s live shows. After seeing fans raise their hands in the shape of an “L,” Ladrones turned the gesture into a rallying cry: “Arriba la L.”

The phrase represents the inclusive environment the group hopes to create at every performance. Whether someone arrives for corridos, metal or rap, Ladrones want the concert to feel like a celebration and a safe place where everyone belongs.

Created during an intensive two-week writing retreat in a cabin, Arriba La L captures everything Ladrones have learned from touring, writing, and growing alongside their listeners. Now, the band is ready to bring that community back onstage—raising the “L” wherever their music takes them next as they embark on an American tour this fall.