Prayers brought the Cholo Goth sounds to the Observatory OC in Santa Ana, Ca on March 14 with an incredible set featuring the vocal stylings of Rafael Reyes and performers in traditional native attire.
Stephen Day
First up was the opener, Hexxx, a Los Angeles based rapper, who "reps that West Coast Wicked Shit," a growing brand for the rapper who is making waves throughout the hip hop scene. Hexxx's style is dark and melodic with accents of 90's and Y2k era hip hop. Hexxx is starting his own tour in April with stops all over the US. Get more info on his website.
Stephen Day
After Hexxx, the crowd was treated to Soltera, a Los Angeles based performance and music project from Tania Ordoñez. Their DJ, and guest vocalist, help provide the crowd with an esoteric and melodic experience that should not be missed. Follow them over on their instagram @soltera818
Stephen Day
Next on stage was Ms. Boan, a moody, mysterious, and experimental experience provided by Marian Saldaña. She encouraged the house lights down to create a "romantic vibe" and took the fans on a journey of love and loss. Follow @Ms.Boan over on Instagram.
Stephen Day
At last it was time for the headliner, Prayers, a Cholo Goth band, currently comprised of Rafael Reyes. Reyes has worked with Dave Parley in the past as a Duo. Prayers has collaborated with such names a Travis Barker and Kat Von D and is influenced by bands like Depeche Mode, Bauhaus, and the Pet Shop Boys. Reyes' life as a member of the Sherman Grant Hill Park 27 gang also influences much of the music.
Prayers pays respect to their native history through their music, specifically chohloh'ahneeh, or cholo culture, born from the resistance to colonization and destruction of their native warrior cultures at the hands of the Castilian empire in the mid 1500's, and that culture is celebrated on stage with performers in traditional attire as well as more modern cholo culture.
Stephen Day
Playing favorites, like Perfect For You, From Dog to God, Young Gods Never Die, and Edge of the Blade, the crowd was on fire and singing along with the high energy performance from Reyes.
Stephen Day
Prayers continues their tour at Vive Latino tonight. Follow them over on Instagram. For more information on cholo culture and its history check out their YouTube video.
