In their early releases, Los Destellos popularized the sharp sound of the electric guitar and bass in the context of a cumbia ensemble. By replacing the horns and accordion with the strings, they played a key role in developing the genre that later became known as Peruvian cumbia,[1] influencing bands such as Los Mirlos, Los Ecos, and Los Diablos Rojos.[2] The band's style bears influence from psychedelic and surf rock as well as cumbia and local Peruvian genres.[3]
In 1970, the band released their best-selling single, "Elsa", which sold over a million copies.[1] Under Edith Delgado Montes' leadership, a reformed Los Destellos recorded several songs for the 2009 Peruvian film The Milk of Sorrow.[4]
