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17
SUNDAY
The suits who program the tunes for La Mega 92.7 FM include a lot of syrupy romantica and peppy-but-bland bombast to appeal to the widest cross-section of Spanish-speaking immigrants. But their format does accommodate some Latin pop that bends the rules, cleverly borrowing from Hispanic folkloric genres, Anglo rock, and hiphop. The 11-plus acts of Mega Fest 2003 offer all of the above. Take the Dominican Republic’s Eddy Herrera: The heartthrob may have an over-the-top vocal style, but his merengue-pop speeds joyously along, propelled by an accordion and congas as well as contemporary keyboards. Panama’s Rabanes appear at first to be a typical ska ‘n’ rap-rock combo, albeit one singing en Español, but then out of nowhere they’ll toss in salsa or funky New Orleans horn bursts. “Mega Fest 2003” begins at noon (see City List for a full schedule of performers) at the Nissan Pavilion, 7800 Cellar Door Drive, Bristow. $10-$35. (202) 432-7328. (Steve Kiviat)