If you haven't heard the story of local Spanish trio Allá consisting of brothers Jorge and Angel Ledezma and lead singer Lupe Martinez, then you need to. It took them over seven years to record and release the debut record, Es Tiempo. Jorge Ledezma sunk $40,000 of his own money into the record while living with his parents and working a day job at Whole Foods. Their music is quite indescribable encompassing Tropicalia, psyche, Kraut-rock and shoegazey Stereolab tendencies. Luckily, Allá's hard work has paid off as they perform an emotional sold out show and not in Pilsen as Ledezma mentions.
Download: Alla - "Es Tiempo"
In the background, lava lamp or amoeba-like images incessantly swirl along with a spinning light ball accompanying the psychedelic vibe. A small Mexican flag drapes on the kick drum symbolizing the band's rich heritage. An array of different audience fill the crowded room proving Alla has crossover appeal. The first song is filled with sonic melodies, instrumental and spacey. Drums crash and then the guitar kicks in. It's aural pleasure. All the songs are sung in Spanish, but you immediately forget because of Martinez's ethereal vocals and guitar playing. The band enlists special guests to perform on some songs including the Occidental Band bringing horns, strings and cello. Allá has a backup band with a bassist, a keyboardist, and a guy who sits there and plays the spoons, cans and shaker. On their third song, a Latin dance party breaks out. Martinez and Ledezma put down their
instruments and spontaneously start salsaing. It's one of the best parts of the show. After, they go back to more shoegazey and rock music. Some audience members receive mini-maracas to assist the band. Ledezma takes a break to introduce the band and thank his family for coming. Ledezma and his drummer brother Angel share a tender moment as tears pour from their eyes. They discuss how tonight is their do or die moment and inspire the crowd with "follow your heart" sentiments. On their epic last song, the band let's loose. A combination of strings, bass, drum and echoing vocals leads to a jam session with Martinez playing guitar on her knees and Ledezma jumping into the audience with his mic as the mic stand tramples on bottles of beer setting on the stage. Despite lulls of slower moments, Allá gave a passionate and inspired performance
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