Cuco shines with lowrider music at El Rey Theatre: Review and Photos

Cuco recently showcased his new album, Ridin’, at El Rey Theatre in a phone-free environment that allowed the audience to be fully present in the moment. Surprising fans by not performing his older hits like “Lover Is a Day” or “Lo Que Siento,” Cuco introduced his new material, labeling it as “uncharted territory.” The singer-songwriter’s nerves were palpable as he admitted his fear before launching into his performance.

Moving away from his bedroom pop roots, Cuco’s upcoming album features an oldies-inspired take on soul music, which is a departure from his previous work. The shift towards a ’50s and ’60s-esque sound parallels trends seen in fellow artists like Clairo and Beabadoobee, who have also gravitated towards past musical eras as their careers progress.

Music from openers Thee Sinseers and The Altons, who played as one LA soul supergroup, set the stage for the evening. Their performances intertwined modern and vintage soul sounds, capturing the essence of traditional doo-wop vocals and authentic camaraderie on stage. The interplay among the different acts highlighted a close-knit relationship that added depth to the overall performance.

Cuco’s band took the stage around 9:30, with the singer wasting no time diving into the set. The phone-free environment allowed the audience to engage fully with the music instead of focusing on capturing the moment digitally, creating an intimate experience for all attendees. The setlist featured tracks from his upcoming album, showcasing a new direction in Cuco’s sound that incorporates elements of psychedelia and soul music.

During the show, “Coming Up the Driveway” stood out as a vocal highlight for Cuco, showcasing his range and emotive delivery. As the night progressed, Cuco’s performance of “My Old Friend” provided a poignant closing moment that celebrated his growth as an artist and connected with his dedicated fan base. The show hinted at more performances to come, ensuring that Cuco’s musical evolution continues to captivate audiences.

With the release of Ridin’, Cuco’s creative pivot marks a turning point in his career, signaling a departure from his previous works towards a more mature and diverse sound. The album promises to be a culmination of Cuco’s growth and experimentation, reflecting his evolution as an artist since his debut in 2017. Overall, Cuco’s album premiere at El Rey Theatre was a testament to his musical journey and showcased his willingness to explore new horizons in his artistry.