CALONCHO LIVE @ THE FONDA THEATER

Caloncho’s recent performance in Los Angeles was a celebration of feel-good melodies, tropical rhythms, and a deep connection with his fans. The concert at The Fonda Theater in Los Angeles, was an energetic affair, and the crowd, eager to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, was filled with excitement from the moment the doors opened. A perfect blend of indie pop, reggae, and Latin rhythms, Caloncho’s sound was exactly what Los Angeles needed to kick off the night. His “El Tour del Tofu”, was a love letter to, not just his newest album Tofu, but that feeling of driving along the coast with the windows down. The album balances playful and introspective themes, with lyrics that range from carefree to heartfelt, making it a unique and enjoyable listen. Overall, it's an easygoing, feel-good record that leaves you wanting more of its sun-soaked vibes and this was exactly what he would bring to The Fonda Theater. 

From the very start, it was evident that Caloncho had built a passionate and loyal fanbase. The venue was packed with fans of all ages who couldn’t wait to sing along to his songs. As the lights dimmed and the first chords rang out, the crowd erupted into cheers. Caloncho’s signature laid-back style was instantly evident as he strutted onto the stage in a tennis-inspired outfit (racket included), his effortless stage presence captivating the entire crowd.The night felt like a warm breeze — relaxed yet energetic — much like the music Caloncho is known for.

Throughout the night, Caloncho effortlessly moved between heartfelt ballads and upbeat tracks that had the crowd dancing and swaying in unison. His setlist included crowd favorites like “Brillo Mío” and “Palmar,” both of which had the audience singing along with pure joy. The combination of catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics made each song a shared experience between the artist and the audience. The show also featured a few newer tracks that showcased Caloncho’s growth as an artist. Even though the new material was fresh, the crowd responded enthusiastically, proving that his fans were ready for whatever he had in store. His ability to seamlessly incorporate new sounds while staying true to his roots was evident throughout the show. The mix of reggae beats, tropical guitar strums, and his distinct voice was a recipe for an unforgettable night. Caloncho is part of a resurgence of alternative Latin rock that had been largely missing in the past decade, his music brings back the sounds of iconic Latin alternative rock bands like Soda Stereo and Maná while also incorporating influences from English-language acts such as Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz.

The energy in the room was electric all night long. Caloncho’s music, which effortlessly mixes carefree vibes with a touch of nostalgia, created a joyful and almost dreamlike atmosphere. When he performed “Wacha Checa,” one of his most energetic tracks, the entire venue transformed into a dance floor, with fans clapping, jumping, and singing along at full volume. It was a moment that perfectly embodied the free-spirited nature of his music. The excitement only grew when special guests took the stage—Sofia Reyes joined him for their song “Yo Tuya, Tu Mia,” and Cuco later appeared to perform their collaboration, “Medusa,” further fueling the crowd's energy.

As the night came to an end, the audience wasn’t ready to let go. Caloncho returned for an encore while donning an LA Dodgers Jersey with his name on the back,a testament to his love and appreciation to the city that had welcomed him with open arms. The night wrapped up with a final, powerful moment of connection, where everyone — from the front row to the balcony — joined in unison for one last song.

Caloncho’s concert in Los Angeles was more than just a performance; it was a reflection of the artist’s authenticity and the special bond he shares with his fans. His ability to blend catchy pop tunes with heartfelt lyrics, and to create a vibrant yet intimate concert experience, makes him stand out in the crowded Latin music scene. The concert was a perfect showcase of Caloncho’s growth as an artist, his undeniable talent, and the warmth that he continues to bring to his music. If this performance was any indication, Caloncho’s future in the industry is bright, and his fans can look forward to many more nights of sun-soaked vibes and unforgettable moments.

Written and photographed by: Ana Oquendo