The Altons, a musical group originating from East Los Angeles, is scheduled to perform in San Jose this weekend. The band is recognized for its combination of Latin soul, psychedelic rock, bolero, and rock styles. The group’s name is derived from Jamaican rocksteady musician Alton Ellis. Frontman and founding member Bryan Ponce stated that Ellis’s approach to reinterpreting music through a personal lens has significantly influenced his songwriting. Ponce noted that he first encountered Ellis’s work decades ago and was struck by the unique rhythm and cultural infusion Ellis brought to classic songs.
The performance connects to the broader cultural history of the South Bay region. San Jose was the location where Lowrider Magazine launched in 1977, documenting car customization and the Mexican-American social landscape. Lowriding developed in postwar Chicano neighborhoods as an alternative to mainstream hot rod culture, with builders modifying vehicles to express identity. The music associated with lowriding, backyard gatherings, and neighborhood cruises often features soul and R&B records with slower tempos. Historical vinyl compilations such as the East Side Story series captured this aesthetic, featuring artists like The Chantells and Barbara Lewis. The Altons draw on this spirit, occasionally incorporating Spanish vocals to reflect the experiences of residents in the South Bay and East Los Angeles.
The Altons formed approximately in 2016, beginning with local performances and releasing a self-titled EP that combined classic soul elements with diverse influences. The group gained a following within the regional Chicano music community before signing with the Penrose imprint of Daptone Records. This agreement facilitated performances at major events including Austin City Limits, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and Corona Capital in Mexico. Early in their career, band members sold thousands of 45 RPM records directly at shows and record fairs, helping to build their reputation.
Their most recent album, Heartache in Room 14, was produced by Bosco Mann of the Dap-Kings. The record emphasizes vocal harmonies and refined songwriting. Tracks such as the title song feature organ arrangements and themes of heartbreak, while other songs like Your Light explore slower ballad structures. Earlier recordings included surf and psychedelic elements, whereas the new material focuses on emotional depth and restraint. Ponce described the production process as distinct from their first self-produced record, which mirrored their live set. He explained that producer Gabe encouraged a focus on strong songwriting from the start, with all tracks recorded on analog tape. Ponce stated that working with Mann provided a masterclass in record production and expressed honor at collaborating with the team. The band expressed excitement about returning to San Jose for the upcoming show.