The merenhouse unit Los Ilegales was formed in the Dominican Republic. Though criticized by the press in their native land due to their electronic update of the traditional merengue style, the group became one of the most popular acts in Central and South America, and were especially big in Venezuela, Mexico, Chile, and Spain. From their debut album, the single "La Morena (Burn It Up)" became a huge hit in 1995. Their second album, Rebotando, was also popular, thanks to the single "El Taqui Taqui." The Remixes collection followed in 1998, as did En la Mira. Ilegales 2000 was issued in late 2000. ~ John Bush