Though Rodrigo y Gabriela [ tickets ] are known for their classical acoustic guitar playing, fans of the duo might be surprised to learn they met as members of a thrash metal band. Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero were teenagers at the time, living in their hometown of Mexico City, Mexico.

Bored with the genre's limited range, the pair practiced different guitar styles. The results inspired a life changing decision. Despite minimal funds and minimal English language skills, they relocated to Europe. While busking on the streets to get by, they met fellow busker Damien Rice [ tickets ]. Taken with Sanchez and Quintero, Rice asked them to go on tour with him.

Since then, Rodrigo y Gabriela have played cities around the world, including appearances at US festivals such as Coachella, Bonnaroo and Outside Lands.

In February, LiveDaily's Tim Mosenfelder caught up with them in San Francisco and took some photos of their performance.