Auberon Artist Feature - June 2022

June 9, 2022

Purchase prints here. A portion of each sale goes to the featured musician. Illustration references photography by Aimee Giese.

"I hope to continue creating a space of peace and harmony with myself and all that involve themselves with me. I hope I can inspire others to do the same through this process." - Miguel Aviña Ramirez

I'm so honored to be able to spotlight Miguel in this month's artist feature. His band, Izcalli, has been a part of the Denver music scene for a long time. Not just musicians, they're community builders. Their artistry has been bringing people together for years and making this world a more beautiful place.

In his interview, Miguel talks about creating without attachment, to let his art be more of a natural expression. As a working artist, I think it can be difficult to remember why you started doing it in the first place, so his approach to creativity is very inspiring. Learn more about Miguel in his interview below.

iZCALLi's 6th album REBIRTH drops soon and I'm so excited to listen and see them play it live. They're throwing an album release bash at Levitt Pavilion on June 18 with a stacked lineup including Citra, El Cro, 2MX2, Puente Libre, Katiria and more. RSVP and purchase VIP tickets here.

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself? What's your name and where did you grow up?

My name is Miguel Aviña Ramirez, I was born in Mexico City and was fortunate enough to experience growing up between Denver and Mexico City. Being an immigrant of Mexican heritage was integral in my upbringing, it brought awareness and gratitude for the opportunities and gifts I have received over the years.

What inspires your work? What drew you to being an artist?

Growing up I was exposed to music, specifically rock, through my father Miguel Aviña El Cro. As far back as I can remember he has been playing music. I guess I can say that due to that, family has been an important pillar in building my music career. The support of my parents, siblings and children have empowered me to continue my musical journey. Life experiences have always been a source for inspiration in my music and lyrics but I also like to draw reference from other artists and writers. Most recently a wave of spiritual awareness has allowed me to explore musical realms I never thought possible. Letting go of expectation and releasing attachments to a sound have allowed me to expand my music.

What are your goals as an artist? What do you hope to achieve?

Most recently, my goal as an artist is to create without attachment and to do so as a natural form of expression. I try not to force anything but instead allow myself to release emotions and ideas through the language of music. I feel like I have been able to do so thus far, but recently doing so with awareness has been much more rewarding for me. I hope to continue creating a space of peace and harmony with myself and all that involve themselves with me. I hope I can inspire others to do the same through this process.

You've been a staple in the Denver music scene for a long time now. How has the scene changed here over the years? What's the most exciting thing about Denver's music scene?

I am very proud and humbled that I have been able to be a contributor to the musical landscape in Colorado for so long! I think the thing that continues to excite me about the music scene in Denver is that there has always been a very strong sense of community when it comes to creating. The diversity, inclusivity and equity for cultures, languages and genres will be something I will always advocate for, and although it has been a continued struggle we have made some headway on that matter. I am really excited to see what the future holds!

What would you like to plug? (New music, upcoming shows, etc.)

I'm excited to share we are releasing our 6th studio album titled REBIRTH on June 18th at Levitt Pavilion Denver, the show starts at 3pm featuring sets from 2MX2, CITRA, El Cro, Puente Libre and Katiria, GA admission is free and limited VIP tickets available. Ticket link: https://www.levittdenver.org/full-calendar/izcalli