What impact did Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert have on their visibility in the U.S.? How does their live performance differ from their studio recordings? What unique elements contribute to the duo’s on-stage energy and audience engagement? In what ways do their musical styles shift during performances, and how do they showcase their versatility?
Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso are a Latin/hip-hop/multi-genre duo who are superstars in their native Argentina and much of Latin America, but until recently were little known in the U.S. outside the Latin music genre. That began changing first with their NPR Tiny Desk Concert last fall, then with their incendiary appearances at Coachella earlier this month.
The duo’s 2024 debut album, “Baño María,” featured their strong singing and rapping over largely electronic instrumentation, and although their new EP “Papota” has live instrumentation from their band, it does not prepare you for what an explosive and exciting live band it is — and not only because the group brought the same set to New York’s 575-capacity Bowery Ballroom that they played at Coachella and in stadiums on the recently completed Lollapalooza South America tour. On Tuesday night, they practically erupted off of the Bowery stage.
The duo — who have comic, antic stage presence that belies their serious musical chops — are accompanied by nine top-flight musicians: a three-piece horn section, two backing singers, a keyboardist, percussionist, bassist and a powerhouse drummer (who, astonishingly, has a tattoo of the logo for ‘70s progressive rockers Emerson Lake & Palmer on his arm) — while Ca7riel played guitar on several songs.
All of the musicians’ formidable skills are on full display in their live set, which finds them changing direction in a head-spinning but still fluid manner: They’ll be playing a Latin-flavored song and then make a hard left into hip-hop and then serve up a smooth ‘80s R&B-flavored number that actually had my companion saying, “This reminds me of Bone Thugs N Harmony”; a couple of others veered into cool-jazz territory found the horn section evoking mid-‘70s Stevie Wonder and Earth Wind & Fire (and featured a stinging jazzy solo from keyboardist Javier Burin).
In just one example of the group’s versatility, Ca7riel — who happens to be a blazing guitarist — peeled off some tasteful, jazzy licks on one song, even scat-singing along with his solo a la George Benson, and on the next was rapping loudly while pulling elastic faces and jumping up and down. Even though the joyfully enthusiastic audience knew the words to all of band’s songs — nearly all of which were from the album and EP — and sang along passionately, you truly never knew what was coming next.
But for all of their musical expertise and undeniable chops, most of all Ca7riel and Paco are fun, playing with the audience, making faces, doing a comical exercise routine to their latest single “El Dia Del Amigo” (which they took to even more comical ends on “Jimmy Fallon” earlier this week). And the musicians all looked like they were having a great time too: Clad in more or less matching outfits — white shirts with black shorts, which bassist Felipe Brandy customized with hilarious oversized sunglasses and sock garters — they were laughing, goofing around and cheering each other throughout the set, all without missing a single beat. There were even lasers.
Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso will be on tour in North America for most of the spring, and come back in the summer for Lollapalooza in Chicago and presumably more dates. Even if you don’t speak Spanish or have little familiarity with Latin music, you’d be hard pressed to find a more entertaining live show.
Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso Bring Explosive Show to NYC: Concert Review
On a chilly night in New York City, the air was thick with anticipation as fans gathered at the iconic venue, Brooklyn Steel, for what promised to be an unforgettable evening. The stars of the night, Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso, two rising forces in the Argentine trap and urban music scene, were ready to set the stage ablaze. This concert was more than just a string of performances; it was a cultural takeover, a sonic celebration that fused genres and transcended geographical boundaries, bringing the pulse of Latin America to the bustling heart of NYC.
As the venue filled, the ambient chatter transformed into a buzz of excitement. Fans draped in oversized hoodies and colorful sneakers, many sporting the unmistakable streetwear style that mirrors the artists’ own aesthetic, filled the room with energy. At around 8:30 pm, the lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted into applause and cheers, signaling the start of a night that would leave a lasting impression.
Opening the show, Ca7riel took to the stage with an electrifying presence that instantly captivated the audience. Known for his unique blend of trap, hip-hop, and R&B, Ca7riel has carved a niche that resonates with a youthful audience searching for authenticity and innovation. As he launched into his first song, “La Noche,” the crowd erupted in a chorus of voices, singing along with infectious enthusiasm. His stage presence was magnetic; each movement, each lyrical delivery was laced with charisma, drawing the audience deeper into his world.
Ca7riel’s performance was marked by a vibrant energy that seemed to flow seamlessly from him to the crowd. The setlist spanned his most popular tracks, showcasing his versatile sound. Songs like “C14TORCE” and “Goteo” had the audience bouncing, while more introspective pieces allowed moments of reflection amidst the adrenaline. The innovative use of lighting and visuals set against the vibrant beats and rhythmic flows created an immersive atmosphere that made the audience feel as if they were part of a larger narrative.
Perhaps the highlight of Ca7riel’s set was his undeniable chemistry with the crowd. It was evident that many of his fans knew every lyric by heart, and their unwavering support helped elevate the experience. He took a moment to connect, acknowledging the influence of the Latinx community in NYC and how their passion fueled his creativity. This deep connection to his roots added a layer of authenticity that resonated throughout the venue.
A palpable shift in energy marked the transition to Paco Amoroso’s performance. As Ca7riel exited the stage, the anticipation for Amoroso’s entrance was palpable. The lights dimmed once more, and with a burst of energy, Paco Amoroso stepped into the spotlight, igniting a fervor that swept through the audience. Known for his distinct style that marries pop, trap, and reggaeton, Amoroso is an artist who embodies the vibrant spirit of contemporary Latin music.
Amoroso wasted no time, diving headfirst into his set with “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 38,” captivating the audience with his dynamic vocal delivery and charismatic stage presence. His ability to blend infectious rhythms with catchy hooks had the crowd singing back every word. As he transitioned through hits like “Salimo de Noche” and “Cuerpo,” the energy in the room escalated, with fans dancing and swaying, locked in an exhilarating connection to the beats and melodies.
One of the most impressive aspects of Amoroso’s performance was his band, which added a rich layer to his sound. With live instrumentation complementing the electronic beats, the musical arrangement elevated the experience, reminding everyone that while urban music often blurs the lines between genres, the essence of live performance can’t be underestimated.
Between songs, Amoroso took a moment to express his gratitude to the New York audience. His words were heartfelt, emphasizing the significance of performing in such a vibrant and diverse city. The crowd responded with thunderous applause, a testament to the appreciation felt on both sides of the stage. The night progressed with an array of colors and rhythms, drawing from reggaeton influences and diving into elements of traditional Latin music, creating a musical tapestry that was both familiar and refreshingly new.
The concert concluded with an explosive encore that brought both artists back to the stage. Performing their collaborative hit “Mienteme,” attendee excitement peaked as the atmosphere transformed into a celebration of unity and creative synergy. The performance felt like a culmination of the night, encapsulating everything that had been electrifying the audience—energy, rhythm, and the exceptional artistry of two remarkable performers.
As the last notes echoed through Brooklyn Steel, and the lights came up, it was clear that Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso had delivered more than just a concert; they had forged a connection, an experience that reverberated well beyond the stage. Leaving the venue, fans were visibly ecstatic, some recounting their favorite moments, while others shared plans for the next show.
In the end, Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso’s explosive show in NYC was a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and bring people together. Their energy, artistry, and authenticity resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on all who experienced the night. For those fortunate enough to be part of it, it was not just a concert; it was a celebration of culture, creativity, and community.
Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso delivered a high-energy performance in their NYC concert, captivating the audience with a dynamic blend of Latin rhythms and urban beats. The duo, known for their electrifying stage presence, engaged the crowd from the moment they stepped on stage. Their unique sound, merging rap and reggaeton, resonated throughout the venue, creating an immersive atmosphere.
The setlist included fan favorites and showcased their versatility as artists. As they performed, the synergy between Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso was palpable, with each artist feeding off the other’s energy, creating a seamless flow of music and excitement. The visuals accompanying their performance added an extra layer of intensity, with vibrant lights and creative projections enhancing the overall experience.
Throughout the concert, the artists made a point to connect with their audience, often encouraging participation and inviting fans to sing along. This interaction amplified the sense of community in the room, making everyone feel like part of the experience. The performance reached a crescendo with an explosive finale that left the audience craving more, solidifying Ca7riel and Paco Amoroso’s status as must-see performers in the music scene.
Overall, the concert was a testament to their growing influence and artistry, leaving attendees buzzing long after the last note faded.