Thievery Corporation performing during the Thievery Corporation Tour 2024 at Emo's Austin in Austin, Texas on May 30, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Twenty-five years into their groundbreaking electronic music career, Thievery Corporation's core principles of D.I.Y. and inclusion have become central themes in mainstream conversations. With a dozen acclaimed albums, remix LPs, concert recordings, and over two decades of electrifying live performances, Thievery Corporation's music and message are more relevant and vital than ever.
This unfiltered approach allowed Garza and Hilton to explore their musical inspirations and create one of the most unique discographies in electronic music, respectfully incorporating international cultural styles without falling into cultural appropriation. “With so much incredible music in the world, why limit yourself to one genre? Well, we found out – it’s far easier to stay in one lane than to genre-hop!” Hilton laughs. Garza adds, “We were influenced by music from all over the world, digging through bins in second-hand record stores for LPs from Brazil, India, Iran, Jamaica, jazz records…we wanted to make music where you couldn’t tell if it was recorded today or a decade ago.” Thievery Corporation’s music has always looked toward the future while honoring the past, beginning with their debut LP, 1996’s “Sounds From The Thievery Hi-Fi,” which introduced Garza and Hilton as innovative producers and pioneers of song-based electronic music featuring diverse vocalists.
The band’s legendary D.C. headquarters, the Eighteenth Street Lounge, became a hub for a diverse array of people and staff from around the world, profoundly influencing their music. “D.C. was very cosmopolitan, with many places to see international live music and jazz,” Garza explains. “We’d meet people from all over the world and invite them to play with us, so Thievery became an extension of that, both on our records and in our live performances.” Hilton and Garza’s “Outernational” approach created a world reflected by their ideals of diversity and acceptance. “25 years after we started, it seems like the world is catching up,” Garza notes. “Social consciousness is more mainstream, and the importance of inclusivity is more recognized…it’s encouraging to see so many people working toward these goals in America.” Hilton agrees. “Thievery is a reflection of who we are, evolved from our musical tastes. Artists like The Clash, Fela Kuti, and Manu Chao were so important to us, and engaging in social ideas has always been a part of what we’ve tried to do.” Though not labeled as “World Music,” Thievery Corporation’s music and ethos are undeniably global and ahead of their time.
In live performances, Thievery Corporation avoids typical electronic dance music tropes. Their concerts are dynamic, featuring a full band and vocalists from diverse cultures, creating unique shows every time. “Our shows are VERY live, with lots of energy, combining multiple instruments and singers that take you on a musical journey,” says Garza. “We have a sitar player, songs in different languages – it’s a multicultural experience that connects people to the band and to each other. It’s beautiful.” As the world emerges from isolation, Garza is eager to return to live performances. “I feel like people have been waiting to celebrate together after being forced apart for too long. We’re all craving that.”
Eric Hilton’s presence at Thievery gigs has become rare. “I never really embraced touring; some world tours were interesting, seeing new places and cultures,” he says. “For me, touring was tourism. The creative process of making music is more my thing.” Thievery Corporation has brought global sounds to listeners throughout their albums. “There are so many highlights for me. 2014’s Saudade is my favorite record, a real creative stretch for us. Quiet music is hard to make! Symphonik also. Hearing our music done with an orchestra was incredible.” Hilton notes that live performances influenced their studio records over time. “After Cosmic Game (2011), we orchestrated jam sessions and built the records from those. For Temple of I and I (2014), we went to Jamaica to jam and record, giving that record a different feel and authenticity.”
Reflecting on their career, Garza and Hilton acknowledge that their differing drives have created something unique. “We love all kinds of music, which is why Thievery Corporation sounds the way it does,” they agree. “We couldn’t incorporate all our tastes into the music, but we do it more than most.” By avoiding trends and embracing the cultural diversities of the world, Thievery Corporation has created a lasting legacy.
“Over 25 years, we’ve left nothing undone. We far exceeded what we thought we would do,” Hilton and Garza agree. Thievery Corporation’s music will continue to resonate and influence the next generation of listeners, offering a global musical experience.
Fan reviews:Thievery Corporation was the main act at Emo's Austin with guests Matthew Dear. They continue across the United States and Europe with the last stop at the Mission Ballroom in Denver, Colorado on October 5, 2024.
They always put on a great show! I will always try and check them out when they are nearby.
Keep getting better. Fourth time is the charm. These guys keep getting better every time I see them. They are very tight musically and the vocals are unique and diverse. I particularly enjoyed the acoustic songs, as I have never seen them play them before.
Awesome band! Great show! Second time seeing Thievery Corp at this venue and they didn’t disappoint! It’s a super eclectic show and a great time. I highly recommend seeing them!
Great Night and great crowd. Thievery Corporation were amazing! The talent of Musicians were impeccable and the four singers brought a style unique to all the styles of music.
How do you even describe them. Thievery Corporation is fun, emotional, expressive, and everything in between, they’re wonderful. This was our third time seeing them. Such a wonderful and unique show, every time. So many different sounds, singers, and moods. We’ll continue to go to their shows every chance we get. Thievery Corporation forever!
Thievery Corporation
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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