Words & Photos: Sarah Puleo
La Luz brought their dreamy surf-rock sound to a sold-out crowd at Johnny Brenda’s in Philadelphia, their only sold-out show of the tour. The Seattle-based four-piece—Shana Cleveland (vocals, guitar), Alice Sandahl (keyboard), Lena Simon (bass), and Marian Li Pino (drums)—delivered an unforgettable performance filled with shimmering melodies, hypnotic rhythms, and playful energy.
Opening the night was Mia Joy, a Chicago-based dream-pop artist whose delicate, atmospheric sound captivated the audience from the start. With lush soundscapes and ethereal vocals, Mia Joy created a soothing, introspective vibe. Songs like “Haha” and “See Us” offered layered, haunting melodies that had the crowd swaying early on. Her emotive delivery and shoegaze-inspired sound provided the perfect backdrop for the more cinematic, surfy energy La Luz would bring.
When La Luz took the stage, holding an iridescent sun, the room was immediately transported into their surreal world. Behind them, psychedelic visuals of space and planets enhanced the atmosphere, adding an otherworldly dimension to their performance. Midway through the set, the band cranked up the fun by tossing blow-up aliens into the crowd, which soon began to crowd-surf around the intimate venue, adding a whimsical twist to the night.
Shana Cleveland’s haunting guitar riffs and airy vocals were perfectly complemented by Alice Sandahl’s eerie, swirling keys. Lena Simon’s smooth bass grooves and Marian Li Pino’s tight, rhythmic drumming provided the backbone, keeping everything grounded while still allowing the band’s sound to float through the air. Fan-favorites like “Cicada” and “Sure as Spring” had the audience swaying in unison, fully immersed in the band’s dreamy, cinematic sound.
Throughout the night, La Luz kept things light and fun, chatting with the audience and expressing their gratitude for the sold-out crowd. Their only sold-out show on the tour, the energy in the room was electric and intimate, with the band clearly feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm. La Luz are currently touring the West Coast with Tele Novella for tickets and tour information click here!
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