By Anntonete Gajol Abuyen, September 29, 2026
The sounds of chatter and the scratching of alternative sounds and undiscovered Latin records light up Claremont Village with vinyl collective, Compas Discoteca.
Compas Discoteca began as a passion project. Four people put their vinyl collections together and DJ for private events, clubs and other lounges: Adrian Silva, Elías Ruiz, Ricardo Carlos and Alberto Piña. Each member has their own experience within the music industry but began their journey as a group two years ago, which is what brought them to La Popular on Sunday, Sept. 20.
Compas Discoteca is a symbol of connection through music and utilizes both traditional and modern culture. Its sound cannot be defined by a standard label because of its limitless, experimental mixes.
According to the team, their sound can be described as soulful tropical funkadelia.
The four have been able to connect through music over the last 20 years by collecting and trading records with one another.
After years of collecting, Piña said he has more vinyls than he can count. He has records scattered throughout his home. Some are lined up on shelves and some stored in boxes in his garage.
This bond and deep connection to physical media set Compas Discoteca apart from other DJs who stick to digital formats these days. Many of the vinyls in each member’s collections and their passion for DJing have been passed down from generation to generation.
Some of Carlos’ prized Salvadoran cumbia and jazz records were given to him by his parents. He recalled having to persuade them not to get rid of the rare discs.
Silva inherited part of his collection and knowledge from his uncle whose equipment he would much rather play with instead of his cousins.
With every set, Piña draws inspiration from his father’s music taste and uses it to emulate the nostalgic tunes being played during backyard parties with piñatas and children running around.
Ruiz’s personal sound is a carefully crafted mosaic of Mexican cumbias and punk, influenced by his family – his seven siblings, father and late mother. Ruiz’s mother is from Ecuador and his father is from Mexico. The music he plays allows him to connect and blend both cultures, especially because many of his records were passed on from them.
Each member said they grew up in an environment where music wasn’t just entertainment but a necessity for family gatherings. In preparation for the event, the members carefully selected the discs they’d be limited to for the rest of the night.
“I was a little late because I was pulling records that I think I might want to play,” Carlos said. “Part of (the fun) is playing to impress these guys. … They are part of my musical journey.”
The creative process is different for each DJ. For example, Piña began thinking about his set and the songs he’d play during the event more than a week in advance.
Compas Discoteca’s attention to detail paid off, and they were able to create a good vibe for the people at La Popular.
Each spot at the bar was filled with people laughing and ordering drinks, bobbing their heads along to the ‘60s grooves.
A waiter chatted with one of the members in between serving his tables, smiling. Some customers sat at their tables in awe, admiring the precision of each vinyl DJ.
Music drew Anahi Cruz and Diane Ochoa, two patrons, to the restaurant. Cruz said she could hear Compas Discoteca’s jams from outside; the vibrations of the speakers echoed through the walls and the beats pulsed through her chest.
Choosing La Popular was an easy decision for Cruz. The restaurant offered a plethora of popular Mexican dishes and a variety of drinks. The customers started to pour in to order drinks and dishes off the happy hour menu.
“Music is huge in Latino culture,” Cruz said.
She said the music makes her feel connected to her roots and feel as if she were back home.
The members of Compas Discoteca know they have an important job, being in charge of the music. Their years of refined skill and generational knowledge guide them with every set.
