Our Story

Born and raised in San Francisco, brothers Ron and Alfonso Portillo were influenced by bands such as Santana, El Chicano, Malo, War, Azteca, and Journey. Having come from a musical family, the brothers started playing music together in the early 80's.  

They continued on their musical journey and were pushed out to perform for the public by friends and family who recognized the talent of the brothers. Their #1 fan was mother "Patricia", who always supported their music and would dance in the family home when they played together.   

The band was recognized by John "Lalo" Rodriguez, music historian of the Latin and rock scene of San Francisco who recognized the potential of the brothers' music and recommended the band to Dr. Bernie Gonzalez (Dr. Rock) of Latin Rock, Inc., who at the time was managing "Malo".  Dr. Rock caught part of a show that the band was doing at an outdoor festival.  He then offered them their first show at Club Fox. 

Pete Escovedo also became aware of the band through his manager Victor Pamiroyan, who recognized Los Cochinos and mentioned that the band is "well on its way" to success in the Latin rock music scene.

Since that time in the late 2000s, Los Cochinos have been mentioned by many to have "been passed the torch" from Carlos Santana's band, as one of the only true original Latin rock and soul bands that continue to make original music in the tradition set by Santana.

Los Cochinos create a special sound that has been compared to the early sound of Santana, El Chicano and other legendary Latin Rock bands. 

The band performs an incredible and exciting live set with a musical menu of Alfonso's screaming, signature guitar lines which emote feeling and emotion and take the listener on a musical escape from the here and now.   On piano, Donald Osborne brings his years of experience and "Chick Corea" influence onto the musical compositions which add another element to the musical menu.  On rhythm guitar is the talented Raj Gopal.  

On lead vocals and new to the band, is Daryl "Debo" Bishop.  Debo is a talented singer and frontman that captivates the audience with his beautiful, soulful voice.  On sax, from the band Tony! Toni! Toné!, is our incredible saxophonist, Ric Alexander.

On drums is the extremely talented Lorenzo "Lonnie" Macon, who keeps the beat for Los Cochinos and also offers up soulful and passionate vocals that touch your heart and make you want to dance! 

Our percussion section is led by talented and much sought after musician Tomas Montano, who has been performing with Alfonso for seventeen years, combined with our other talented percussionist, conguero Miguel Martinez, who previously performed with Malo.

Fauss Gamulo brings his smooth, percussive bass lines which blend well with the soulful sounds of Los Cochinos.

Once you sample the sounds of Los Cochinos, you'll certainly be a fan!