CALEXICO AT GREAT AMERICAN MUSIC HALL IN SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Having released their ninth studio album, Calexico finds themselves back on the road in support of the newest release, “The Thread That Keeps Us”. Nearing the end of their North American tour, Calexico came to town to play two shows at the intimate Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.
This show had an interesting vibe to it. As soon as the band took the stage, the room filled with warmth and friendliness. This has become a rare feeling for me, especially during these polarizing times. Turning the small club into their own living room, it felt as though Calexico was playing a house show for all the friends they’ve made over the last twenty years.
Joey Burns and Co. have perfected the art of story telling via the roads of music and the engagement of the audience is a true testament to that. No phones. Just the music, lights, and dancing.
Often described as a Tex-Mex indie rock band, Calexico blends the sounds of Latin America with modern art rock. For me, this band is a distant cousin of Wilco. Calexico’s sound is huge. The use of horns, vibraphones and ethereal orchestrations allows the vastness of the desert to come alive in a room full of 450 plus people.
Be sure to give these boys a listen. Allow yourself to dive into their deep discography and be prepared to go on a journey. The music of Calexico is something special and is worthy of being celebrated and shared among all your friends.
Austin Newkirk is a San Francisco Bay Area photographer. You’ll likely find him in one of three places - out at the beach with his dog, Ky, at a brewery sipping on a stout, or out shooting your next favorite band.