Interview: WONDERFOX
Isabel Valencia is a Colombian artist who moved from Medellín to Los Angeles, where she founded WONDERFOX. As the band's driving force, she writes, produces, and performs nearly everything — except drums. While rooted in rock, her sound draws from pop, shoegaze, grunge, indie, and folk.
WONDERFOX has released two albums and an EP, and has shared the stage with artists like Café Tacvba, Julieta Venegas, and Siddhartha. The band has played festivals such as Paz Rock (Bogotá), La Onda (Napa Valley), and toured through Mexico with Allison.
Isabel sees WONDERFOX as a collective that grows with each collaborator — in the studio, on stage, behind the scenes, and through the listeners who connect with the music.
What inspires your music?
Mainly life, and I also use music as a type of therapy to understand myself and the world better.
Who are some of your influences?
Massive attack, Depeche Mode, The Cure, Gustavo Cerati, Radiohead, Cocteau Twins, Ismael Rivera, Hector Laboe and many more.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Some of my favorite memories from my career are the ones where I can really feel that connection with the audience. One that I’ll never forget was getting asked for one more song after opening for Café Tacvba on their 2023 tour, it was incredibly special. Another huge moment was being the first band ever to open the La Onda Festival. That felt like we were part of something new and meaningful. It felt like a piece of history in the making
But honestly, what moves me the most are the messages I’ve received from people telling me how one of my songs helped them through something, or made them feel seen. Moments like that remind me how powerful music can be.
At the end of the day, there's nothing like being on stage and watching people connect with a song in real time. That feeling is magic.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
It’s hard to pick just one. I have so many favorites for different reasons, but if I had to choose, I’d say my first album, "Como Entrar y Salir de un Laberinto", holds a really special place in my heart. That album taught me so much; it showed me that I was capable of producing my own music, of trusting my ears, and most importantly, of really listening to my heart and letting go.
It was more than just an album; it was a turning point. That album became my teacher and my mirror. It opened the door to a whole new era for me as a musician.
My favorite song from it is "Creer que puedes, justo antes de poder". That track in particular captured a feeling I was living through at the time. The moment just before something shifts and you finally realize what you’re capable of.
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
I’ve been lucky to work with people who are not only super talented but also incredibly supportive.
Nicolás Staub, my great friend, mixing engineer, and co-producer, has been essential to shaping the sound of WONDERFOX. He’s professional, patient, and really understands the vision.
In the studio, Argel Cota, our drummer for the last two albums, brings so much musicality and creativity. His playing always makes the songs stronger, and his production feedback is spot on. Alex Bajos, our drum recording engineer and live bass player, also brings great energy and ideas during tracking, and playing live with him and Argel is always a joy.
Alexis Rodríguez, who mastered the new album, has helped us grow both sonically and strategically. His advice on marketing and audience-building has made a real difference in how we connect with listeners and show up online.
I am also super grateful for my manager Manuel Moran, friends like Dilson Díaz, and most of all, my family, who’ve supported me unconditionally from day one. I honestly feel super lucky to be surrounded by such good people who believe in what I’m doing.
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
I'm exited for people the listen to the new album "De la Nostalgia y Otros Placeres"
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
Play more shows and get more people to connect with the music.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
Share, share, share! Share our music as much as possible on your stories, feed, and other platforms, so more people know we exist.
Stream the WONDERFOX’s latest single, "Luna," on our W.O.T.R.I playlist! 👇
