The Warning: “Rock instills in me a sense of authority…” “Everyone establishes such a strong connection”

The Warning have emerged as one of the most captivating young bands in rock’n’roll, a decade after their viral cover of Enter Sandman. Nevertheless, they are only just beginning. The Villarreal Vélez sisters contemplate the significance of inspiring others and the accomplishments they have achieved thus far as they prepare to release their fourth album, Keep Me Fed, and perform a headline show at London’s O2 Academy Brixton in 2025.

The Warning are experiencing jet fatigue. The Villarreal Vélez sisters apologise for their diminished energy levels upon our arrival at their residence in Monterrey, Mexico. They have recently returned from a tour in Japan where they supported Band-Maid. However, their enthusiasm is not entirely diminished by their increasing fatigue, particularly in light of their recent travels. “It was truly remarkable!” ” Drummer Pau glows. “It is absurd to contemplate that we performed three sold-out shows there.”

Pau, Dany, the main vocalist and guitarist, and Ale, the bassist, are not uncommonly involved in excursions of this nature. They have already dedicated half of their lives to the pursuit of music, at the ages of 22, 24, and 19, respectively. 10 years ago, the spark was first ignited when their rendition of Metallica’s Enter Sandman went viral, while they were still children. Since then, they have been maturing onstage and accumulating hundreds of thousands of miles of experience. Their resume includes opening roles for artists such as Muse, Royal Blood, and Halestorm. However, they are also capable of entertaining large audiences independently and will be the headliner at the O2 Academy Brixton when they return to the United Kingdom next year.

Therefore, how did we arrive at this point? In their youth, the sisters’ initial exposure to an instrument was the piano, and their subsequent acquisitions were plastic. In fact, the initial time Dany, Pau, and Ale collaborated, they were seated in front of a television, playing imitation guitars and percussion on the videogame Rock Band. Although they may have achieved high scores, there was a much more significant factor at play: it was a means of gaining exposure to an unexplored musical universe, including Paramore and Panic! At The Disco to classics such as Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.

Nevertheless, Rock Band was not the sisters’ sole introduction to music. Their childhood was influenced by their father’s habit of broadcasting concert films on television, which they would watch as a family. This was due to their early exposure to classical music, which they had acquired through playing the piano at a young age. The ideal of following in the footsteps of giants began to form as they lost themselves in iconic shows from the likes of Elton John, Pink Floyd, Muse, Queen, and Billy Joel from the comfort of the sofa.

Pau asserts, “Rock is a genre that instills in me a sense of empowerment.” “When we play it, I feel extremely empowered in the presence of my sisters.” It is a genre that is highly energetic, yet it is also one in which everyone establishes a significant connection.

It was inevitable that the triumvirate would eventually attempt to compose music.

“We resolved to collaborate on a song, and there was no turning back.” Dany continues, “It was simply incredible.”

At the age of 13, 11, and eight, they performed their inaugural performance at a Christmas celebration. It is possible that a few individuals raised their eyebrows at the time, which is understandable.

“We did not feel like children when we began, but I have since viewed photographs of our initial performances and we appear to be toddlers,” Pau chuckles. “I can comprehend why those in our vicinity were enquiring, ‘What are you doing?'” However, since we commenced our collaboration, we have developed a clear vision of our objectives and have continued to develop as a band.

“We have been engaged in this endeavour for a decade, and now, people are exclaiming, ‘That is so cool, you are amazing, we are so proud.’ Initially, our family and friends were somewhat hesitant about it, but they are now more at ease with our success, tours, and fans.” They are certain that it is a legitimate position, you know? ”

Undoubtedly, The Warning’s dynamic has been enhanced by their lifelong proximity; however, their individual distinctions have resulted in them naturally assuming distinct roles, despite their bloodline connection.

Turning to her sister, who is the quietest of the trio, Pau proposes, “Ale keeps us in check.” “You are aware of when to draw the line on something during rehearsals.”

“You are undoubtedly a creative force,” Dany informs Pau. “You consistently maintain a creative momentum.”

Pau responds, “You are an exceptional frontwoman and possess a remarkable ability to establish connections with others.” “I play the drums from the back, and occasionally, I lack the necessary skill.” I am of the opinion that the others are more important than we are, as they are willing to step in when necessary. For example, if Dany is feeling unwell, Ale and I assume her responsibilities. We are extremely adaptable in this regard, as we are acquainted with one another and are aware of the band’s requirements.

These three women are already a formidable triumvirate, but they are also making significant progress that few others in their country are able to achieve.

What is the number of Mexican rock bands that you are familiar with? Mariachi El Bronx are not considered. It is possible that The Warning is the sole Latino rock act you are familiar with. The sisters are acutely aware of the fact that Latino rock acts are not particularly dominant on a global scale, as we discussed today. However, the adulation of music by the public is not diminished by the scarcity of worldwide success stories that break through.

The Warning’s upbringing in Monterrey has undoubtedly been advantageous. Located in the northern region of the country, it is one of the most economically prosperous and metropolitan cities in Mexico. Additionally, it is the spiritual music capital of the country, as evidenced by the fervour for live music and the infrastructure that support emergent musicians. The Villarreal Vélez sisters were able to flourish as a unit and break free from the confines of their country’s borders as a result of their simple access to music shops and tuition during their childhood. Despite their expansion, they have maintained their connection to the city. Although others in a comparable situation may have relocated to a larger centre, such as Los Angeles, the trio has no intention of doing so.

“Pau believes that there is nothing more special than embarking on a tour and experiencing the entirety of the world, only to return to one’s own language, culture, and cuisine.”

Simultaneously, their fellow citizens in other Mexican ensembles also benefit when they triumph. All ships are lifted by a rising tide.

“It is extremely thrilling that the music that originates from Mexico is now being recognised by a broader audience on an international scale, as our nation is home to an extraordinary number of musicians and a vibrant music scene,” she continues.

“The mainstream music that is currently being played is equivalent to that of the Western music industry; however, rock is categorically not mainstream.” Nevertheless, it boasts the largest and most enthusiastic audiences. Each time we encounter a band, they express their enthusiasm for Mexico, stating that the fans are fervent and that the venue is consistently overcrowded, with all tickets sold out. ‘”

“It is truly remarkable to witness your music establishing a connection with individuals worldwide.”

The sisters continue to take pride in their advocacy for Mexican music. To underscore this sentiment, Dany points to the bright teal Mexico football shirt she is currently donning.

She elaborates, “There are individuals who appreciate our representation of them, while others are opposed to it.” “We are extremely proud of our Mexican heritage and approach our responsibilities with the utmost pride.”

Nevertheless, it is not without its challenges. “We are aware that we are representing our culture as a whole every time we interact with someone or collaborate with someone, as the public typically has a negative perception of our culture and expects it to be consistent with the images they see on television.” Every time we collaborate with other musicians, they express their admiration for our kindness and warmth. That is our culture; it is simply our usual behaviour.

Given that they have been entrusted with the responsibility of combating Mexican stereotypes, what do they wish that others would comprehend more about their culture?

Ale suggests that individuals will go above and beyond to complete the task.

Pau emphasises that “passion is the centre of all things.” “In our culture, you must give your all when undertaking a task.” I have never encountered individuals who are as diligent as those in Mexico.

Ale asserts that certain smaller bands are beginning to establish a “distinctive sound” that is exclusive to their homeland in the context of indigenous music; however, The Warning do not subscribe to this notion. In fact, there are numerous influences that will be immediately recognisable to Western audiences. For instance, the buzz of their riffs immediately indicates that they were deeply influenced by Muse’s discography during their younger years. Rather, their cultural heritage is revealed in more subtle ways.

“I do not believe that it is necessary to explicitly demonstrate our heritage through our music,” Pau asserts. “It is evident in our character, as it is derived from the heart and is deeply ingrained in our culture, as well as in the manner in which we express our emotions and thoughts.” We observe English from a distinct perspective, as it is not our native language. I believe that is the method by which we demonstrate our heritage in some capacity.

The Warning is acutely aware that dreams are not immutable. They are not items that can be checked off a list; rather, they are experiences that you undergo. The idea of touring the world with a band may seem overwhelming, but it is a unique and taxing way of life that moves at a pace that exceeds the capacity of the human mind. Their fourth album, Keep Me Fed, has been significantly influenced by this lifestyle.

The record was assembled during brief periods of time between performances, as the band’s consistent demand prevented them from dedicating sufficient time to the task. Although it was not an ideal situation, it was rather beneficial. This is perhaps fitting for an album title that references feeding, as it reflects the band’s need to halt and evaluate.

Dany explains, “We encountered numerous experiences during the tour that we were unable to process at the time. The record-making process provided us with an opportunity to release all of this.” “We were unable to devote a significant amount of time to revising the music and verifying every last detail.”

“That significantly altered the tide of the game for us.” “Occasionally, an artist who lacks the necessary space and time must identify the art within the assignment,” Pau continues. “You are compelled to effectively articulate your thoughts within the restricted time frame, which necessitates the use of your muscles.”

Pressing the “play” button on “Keep Me Fed” will immediately transport you to one of the expansive halls or arenas that The Warning have become acclimated to performing in. It is fundamentally influenced by the live experience, designed to be at its most vibrant in the environment where it is most visible. It is unadulterated, raw rock’n’roll, but it is infused with a road-worn wisdom that has developed as a result of their accumulated experience. Occasionally, the guitar’s revs may cause you to sit a little more erect.

The awareness that the band is on a hamster wheel that is larger than itself, sustaining itself while also maintaining a larger system in motion, is the only thing that unites its songs.

“It may sound overly dramatic, but we not only provide sustenance to the masses, but we also consume the food that other individuals provide,” explains Pau. “However, we were also satisfying our emotional needs by engaging in our favourite activities while touring and writing.” It is consumed in all regions.

“We aimed to demonstrate the progress we have made in the past few years.”

Keep Me Fed is expansive in its lyrical content. At times, it is defiant; the sassy strut of Burnout demonstrates their resistance to an individual who is depleting the energy of others, while the early singles SICK and MORE encapsulate the sensation of yearning for more from life. Hell You Call A Dream may be the most challenging of all in terms of its subject matter, as it addresses the challenges of the musician’s life that artists may be hesitant to discuss. Certainly, it may appear more thrilling on paper than spending 40 hours per week seated at a computer, but there is a constant obligation to express gratitude, even when the going gets difficult.

“During the 60-90 minutes that you are performing onstage, that is heaven,” Pau observes. “You are engaging in social interactions and sharing music, but you are also confined to a bus for two months, sharing with 13 other individuals.” Each day, you endure the dreadful movement of the bus, which causes you to slumber in a coffin and fear for your life. You are comparable to an athlete; performances are physically demanding, and the inability to adequately recuperate can be exceedingly taxing. Public perception is that you enter the stage, perform, and then depart. We are extremely appreciative of the opportunity to collaborate and perform our duties; however, the remainder of the tasks that must be completed are unavoidable.

The Warning encountered a form of imposter syndrome for an extended period of time when it came to composing in English. It is challenging enough to create, but the act of doing so in a second language introduces a unique set of regulations and potential hazards.

Dany recollects, “We collaborated with numerous native English songwriters, and we came to the realisation that we would exert ourselves to identify intricate English words in order to demonstrate our skill.” Occasionally, their counterparts would be unaware of the meanings of the words they attempted to employ. “We have come to the realisation that we do not need to overdo it, as it is our second language.”

Nevertheless, they have consistently prioritised the recognition of their Spanish heritage by incorporating tracks that are composed in the language. This time, the playful Que Mas Quieres (which translates as “What else do you want?”) is used as a feisty critique of the “gaslight, gatekeeper, girlboss” archetype. They began their lives in English, but they soon realised that the wording was more suitable for their native language. Consequently, they tore it up and began anew.

Despite the fact that writing in their native language is not always the most straightforward approach. The grammar is intricate, and it is not permissible to extend syllables across multiple notes, as is the case in English, as this could potentially alter the meaning of a word. “It is a language that is intricate, but it is also a beautiful one,” emphasises Pau.

These young women have a plethora of accomplishments to be proud of, as evidenced by their story thus far. They have been in the game for a decade, and they are rapidly destroying the ceilings for artists from their nation, as they continue to conquer larger and larger rooms. In all honesty, there is a great deal to strive for, particularly for those who can relate to them. They are almost too engrossed in their work to pause and contemplate that concept; however, the notion that they are heroes to someone feels somewhat alien.

“I am aware that I am unable to function upon my return from tours.” Pau confesses, “I am incapable of performing my laundry.” “I am a human being, and it is peculiar to believe that others regard me as a role model when I do not regard myself in the same way.” However, I am aware that the three of us are exceedingly diligent. We would be delighted to be referred to as role models if that serves as an inspiration to others.

However, despite the weight of success and expectation on their shoulders, they continue to be a band with unadulterated intentions. As Dany succinctly states, “As long as we continue to pursue our passions and, as a result, we begin to motivate others… We relish that.”