[4][5] Mano Negra had been a pioneering force in the world of punk-infused Latin rock, but after years of internal strife and a chaotic tour across war-torn Colombia, the group disbanded before their 1994 studio album Casa Babylon was even released.

[5] For the next three years, Chao spiraled into a deep sense of restlessness and depression, continuing his music career by performing at bars in Tijuana and Rio.

[5] It was here, in a rundown Rio favela, that an encounter with a cow, which he described as "tender," gave him a renewed sense of purpose, pulling him back from the brink.

[5] He continued writing more songs in Madrid and Galicia before making his way to Paris, where he briefly worked on an album with former girlfriend Anouk for Virgin.

[4] However, as Chao continued to experiment, a technical glitch with Letang's computer inadvertently stripped out most of the electronic elements and drums, leaving behind a more acoustic, organic sound.

[4] Rather than being discouraged, Chao embraced the unexpected turn of events, famously stating, "le hazard est mon ami"—"chance is my friend.

[4] Critics doubted the album's ability to break through, suggesting it would sell only a few thousand copies, primarily to fans of Mano Negra.

[4] Despite this, Clandestino began to gain momentum organically, especially among travelers and backpackers in popular destinations like Ko Samui and Puerto Escondido.

John Bush of AllMusic described the album as an "enchanting trip through Latin-flavored worldbeat rock," highlighting its eclectic mix of musical styles and noting that Chao's "infectious, freewheeling delivery" made tracks like "Mentira" and "Bongo Bong" particularly compelling.