by DJ Cat Scratch
Having seen Chicano Batman in the past in 2019, seeing them one last time before the bands recently announced hiatus was such a lovely experience. I remember the first time I saw them I was a freshman in high school at LA’s Tropicalia Festival. I had never listened to CB before then, but when I heard them play ‘Magma’- I was completely mesmerized and I had been a fan ever since. Being a third year in college seeing them for the last time feels like such a full circle moment. I knew I had to be there when I heard they were going to be playing on campus.
Seeing Chicano Batman live with Thee Sinseers and the Altons was such a beautiful moment. The Quarry Amphitheaters natural charm and forest background was the perfect match for the smooth delicate sounds of the performers that night. All the openers were fantastic and so great to see preform live. Tropa Magica started off the night strong with their funky grooves and The Altons followed with a beautiful performance of their songs like “Float” and “Tangled Up in You.” Thee Sinseers went up joined together with members of the Altons for a lively night of soul music.
Chicano Batman played an amazing set full of fan favorite hits like “Freedom is Free” “Passed You By” and of course ended the night with “Black Lipstick.” My favorite performance of the night was when they played their cumbia inspired song “La Manzanita” The whole amphitheater was so lively and got up dancing. You could feel everyones pride in hispanic culture glowing throughout the whole venue. The venue being mainly people of color sharing a love for such an influential band and their music was so beautiful to experience and be apart of. Over all the night was filled with smiles, dancing, and love. Which is what you would expect at a Chicano Batman concert- all love. Surely they will be missed by many here in Santa Cruz and throughout the whole world. It was truly a privilege to be apart of that night.