El Veneno Crew Returns with New Album Critiquing Canary Islands Tourism Crisis

The return of El Veneno Crew to the studio is more than just a milestone for Canary Islands hip-hop; it serves as a reflection of the rapid urban changes sweeping the archipelago. As reported by Diario de Avisos, the La Laguna-based collective has broken a long creative silence with "V," a 17-track album that reaffirms their dedication to social commentary—a style they have long used to highlight the tensions of island life.

The project brings together 13 members, including Fernikhan, Javi El Negro, Stereoman, Jero, and Javadub. The public’s response has been immediate: their launch concert on March 27 at the Aguere Cultural space is already sold out. The group admits they were surprised by this success, which proves that two decades after forming in 2003, their loyal fan base still resonates with their combative message.

At the heart of the new album is the group’s critique of their environment. They argue that the quality of life in San Cristóbal de La Laguna is declining due to an oversaturated tourism model. From their perspective, population pressure and the commercialization of public spaces have made housing unaffordable and turned the historic center into a difficult place for locals to live. Rather than looking back with nostalgia, the group focuses on a structural critique of how the land is being managed.

Technically, "V" stands out for its length, which is a rarity in today’s era of short, digital-first music. Coordinating such a large group—with visual support from Marcos Sanz—shows a desire to create something lasting, even if the members describe their work as an "intermittent passion." While the group’s future remains uncertain, this album cements their role as chroniclers of an island reality that they believe is facing one of its most critical moments.