Black Pumas Bring soul, rock, and a little bit of magic to ACL Live in Austin, TX – 12/6/23
by Diego Donamaria
This week, Austin was treated to an unforgettable evening courtesy of the Grammy award-winning, local soul-rock band the Black Pumas. They had already played several sold-out shows at ACL Live, and this was the final night. The band, known for their powerful stage presence and genre-defying sound, did not disappoint as they took the audience on a musical journey. The band showcased their unique blend of soul, funk, and R&B throughout their set leaving us to wonder which song they would play next, time after time.
The stage setup was like eye candy. Lights flashing, a backdrop that matched the intensity – it was a feast for the senses. Each band member brought their own flavor, and together, they created this magnetic atmosphere that pulled us in from the first note. From the moment the lead singer Eric Burton stepped onto the stage, it was clear that this was going to be a night to remember. His soulful voice, reminiscent of legends like Otis Redding, immediately captured the attention of the crowd. The chemistry between Eric Burton and the guitar player Adrian Quesada was palpable, creating a musical synergy that translated into a fun and groovy experience.
The setlist was a journey through the Black Pumas’ critically acclaimed catalog, featuring hits from their self-titled debut album and tracks that highlighted the band’s musical evolution. The stage presence of Black Pumas was nothing short of magnetic. Burton’s dynamic vocals were complemented by the stirring guitar riffs of Quesada. The backup vocals added depth to the sounds and the crowd was ready for the experience. The band’s connection with the audience was evident as they delivered each song with passion and authenticity.
One of the night’s standout moments was the rendition of their breakout hit, “Colors.” The song resonated through the venue, with the audience singing along and swaying to the rhythm. The performance of this track encapsulated the essence of Black Pumas – a perfect blend of raw emotion, soul, and musical prowess.
The visual elements of the show added another layer to the overall experience. A captivating light display bathed the stage in a kaleidoscope of colors, enhancing the mood of each song and creating a visually stunning backdrop for the band’s performance.
The Black Pumas have come a long way from their early beginnings. Their performance at ACL Live was a testament to their status as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary soul music. The band’s ability to captivate and uplift the audience through their soulful tunes is a testament to their artistry. If you have the chance to catch Black Pumas live, don’t miss it – it’s an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of music and the ability to connect and uplift people.
Check out the all our show photos on Austin 101 Magazine and find us on X and Instagram.
Setlist
Fire
Gemini Sun
Know You Better
Black Moon Rising
Touch the Sky
Sugar Man (Rodriguez cover)
Confines
Angel
More Than a Love Song
Chronicles of a Diamond
Mrs. Postman
Stay Gold
OCT 33
Colors
