Last night, bajo las luces de Marathon Music Works en Nashville, Café Tacvba electrified the atmosphere. My teenage years echoed back, all al ritmo del rock en español. On this U.S. tour, they were on fire and so was I—ten rum and cokes deep, buzzing with energy, feeling every note. In that moment, with the music echoing and the crowd swaying, I felt invincible.
For those who might need a refresher, Café Tacvba hails from Mexico and has been the embodiment of Latin alternative rock for years on end. Where others have faded, they’ve stood tall, consistently delivering hits and reinventing their sound, yet always retaining their core essence. It’s remarkable to realize their last album released years ago, but each song remains fresh as ever. Rubén, with that unmistakable voice, pours his soul into every lyric, as if singing for the very first time.
The familiar hum of my old Discman comes to mind when I think of my teenage days in Nicaragua. Café Tacvba’s melodies played on repeat, especially “Eres,” which became the soundtrack to my young heart’s highs and lows. Their tour announcement was the buzz of our town, but with my meager allowance, attending seemed like a distant dream. Enter my cousin Hazzol, her generous heart, and a gifted ticket. My golden pass to a world of live music, my first concert, an opportunity to see the band that played through my headphones day in and day out. This was the inception of an eternal bond with these rock maestros.
Setting the tone for the evening was Wonderfox, a captivating rock ensemble anchored by Colombian songstress, Isabel Valencia. Her vocals, commanding and reminiscent of iconic voices like Pat Benatar and Janis Joplin, resonated through the venue. Having shared stages with big names like Julieta Venegas and La Ley, and bursting with unforgettable melodies from genres spanning from grunge to indie rock, they offered the perfect prelude to Café Tacvba’s performance, setting the atmosphere ablaze.
Now, in my late thirties, I often find solace in the shadows of a venue, comfortably seated, away from the frenetic pulse of the barricades. But last night, as songs like “Cómo Te Extraño” and “Chilanga Banda” resonated in the air, that seasoned restraint gave way to the raw zeal of my teenage self. The misunderstood girl who sought solace in the rhythms and lyrics of Café Tacvba roared back to life. The crescendo of “Déjate Caer” acted like a spell, pulling me closer to the center of the storm.
Yet, this dance was different, even more exhilarating. Freed from the shackles of youthful insecurities, I didn’t care for the sideways glances or muted whispers. My moves, unrestrained and unapologetic, spoke of a freedom only age and experience could grant. The setlist was a bridge to my past. The music coursed through me, reviving memories and feelings, reminding me of the wild, passionate soul I’ve always been, and always will be. It was a night of rediscovery, of unabashed celebration, of me.
Café Tacvba’s presence on stage is an immersive experience. As Rubén and the band navigated through their setlist, each song became a chapter from a shared diary. They delivered hits like “María”, “ El baile y el salon”, “Diente de Leon”, “Flores” and many more. What made the concert special was the genuine connection they fostered with us. Even though Rubén kept his conversations brief, every word, every gesture was drenched in sincerity. When he spoke, the venue felt smaller, more intimate. The band’s iconic dance routines added a touch of whimsy, evoking shared nostalgia and joy. The adoration from the fans was evident in every cheer and applause. And while “Ingrata” was conspicuously missing, the plethora of melodies they dished out left no room for complaint. The night was a celebration, a testament to the enduring bond between Café Tacvba and their fans.
As the night drew to a close, amidst the encore and the cheers, there was a moment of reflection. A realization of how music, especially from a band like Café Tacvba, becomes an integral part of one’s life journey, marking moments of joy, love, heartbreak, and rebirth.
