So a couple of weeks ago I was invited to see an amazing band called Pop Pistols at a bar I had never been to called Limelight. It’s actually a very popular bar in San Antonio that hosts all kinds of musicians. It was definitely a change from 502. The lobby of the bar is full of cool retro arcade games. As you go further in, you’re met with a fully stocked bar manned by a couple of friendly bartenders. Further on, you get to a stage set down a couple steps from the main level. Their light system is amazing. During the performances their moving lights created shadows and depth that just added so much more to each of the musician’s performances.
The Xicano trio, Pop Pistol, prides themselves on being able to create an entire shamanic dreamlike state. I have to say they did not disappoint. Their music relies on a heavy layering that builds this powerful atmosphere that is almost tangible in the crowd. The darkness and depth of the bass notes create a foundation that resonates in your chest. Added to that are the rhythmic taps of the drums and synth sounds that give life to the song. The icing on the cake comes with the eerie tones of the electric guitar juxtaposed with the singer’s melancholy voice. Throughout the performance there was always a combination of these different layers causing an out of body experience for the audience. The amazing technicians at Limelight were able to add to the atmosphere by the use of moving lights and silhouettes.
The music itself seemed to be almost like a trance inducing fog that permeated the crowd. You could feel the anticipation when the drums built up energy only to have the bass come thundering in and the high pitches of the electric and singer strike lightning fast and smooth to create a full on storm on stage. The light show wrapped around the music perfectly. I would definitely suggest checking these amazing guys out when you have the chance. You can learn more about them and hear some of their music on their Facebook page and Bandcamp site.