In New York, outdoor live music is always a major treat in the summer, especially after the seemingly endless winters we endure around here. Appearing as part of the Latin Alternative Music Conference, Chicano Batman provided a perfectly paired soundtrack for a sunny afternoon in Central Park on Saturday.
Taking the stage in a set of matching plum tuxedos, the Los Angeles based quartet had the crowd captivated from the first notes of “Angel Child,” an upbeat and eclectic tune that seamlessly flows between genres and tempos. Delivering a breezy fusion of psychedelic soul, funk and R&B influences reminiscent of the 70s, Chicano Batman instantly turned the day into a celebration and it was impossible not to dance along.
The rest of the band’s retro-infused performance was heavy on material from their latest album, Freedom Is Free, released back on March 3rd. The show was peppered with breezy organ melodies, jammy guitar riffs, and funky backbeats, featuring tracks such as “Jealousy,” “Friendship (Is A Small Boat In A Storm),” and “Freedom Is Free.” “Flecha Al Sol,” sung entirely in Spanish, provided a direct nod to their Latin roots.
With a warm, authentically joyful energy and a nostalgic, soulful sound, Chicano Batman’s refreshing set was everything listeners could have wanted on a summer afternoon. They put on a mesmerizing show from start to finish and seemed to be enjoying the afternoon just as much as the rest of us.
Article: Nicole Shyti