Chicano Batman serves Los Angeles a large dose of psychedelia

Chicano Batman has never been a band to conform to the usual. On June 29th, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum (technically, in Inglewood) was electrified by these local legends supporting their latest album, Notebook Fantasy. Their fifth full-length album is a testament to their relentless creativity and refusal to be boxed in. Produced by the acclaimed John Congleton, Notebook Fantasy marks a bold departure from their previous works: shedding all inhibitions, while embracing a more expansive, bolder sonic approach.

As the lights dimmed and the first notes filled the air, the audience roared to life.

Vocalist Bardo Martinez, guitarist Carlos Arévalo, bassist Eduardo Arenas, and drummer Dylan Elise each took their respective places onstage, ready to play a span of arena-ready anthems to psychedelic space odysseys. Chicano Batman‘s performance was a rollercoaster of psychedelic sights and sounds, all anchored by their raw, yet soothing energy.

The band’s newest material only adds to their mystical intrigue, their expansive, yet euphoric synth-pop sound, and their grand 70s-style embellishments. The highlight of the night came during the encore, as the band returned to the stage to perform “Black Lipstick” — a fan-favorite that had the entire venue singing. Can’t wait to catch them again!

Photography by Celeste Basich

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