GALLERY + REVIEW: Jesse & Joy - San Antonio, TX (8/1/23)

Aug 3

Jesse & Joy
Aztec Theatre - San Antonio, TX - August 1st, 2023
Photos & review by Albert Villasana (@albertvphotos)

The Aztec Theatre in San Antonio, Texas, Latin music enthusiasts gathered for a night that would be etched in their memories for years to come. The stage was set for a celebration of musical brilliance, featuring the captivating talents of Jesse & Joy, the enchanting debut of Montufar, and the soul-stirring performance of Francisca Valenzuela.

The emerging duo, Montufar, stepped into the spotlight. With a unique musical proposal of indie pop-rock, the brothers Marifer and Victor captivated the audience from the first chord. Hits like "Escaparnos" and "Ojos" resounded throughout the theater, inviting the audience to sing along and leaving an indelible impression. Montufar had proven that their musical proposal was fresh, relevant, and worthy of attention, setting the stage for an extraordinary night of music. With heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies, Montufar's songs struck a chord with the audience's emotions, inviting them to join in and sing along. The theater filled with unified voices, embracing the duo's music as their own. The intimate setting of the theatre allowed for a genuine connection to form between the artists and their crowd. The second opening act, Francisca Valenzuela, a Chilean-American singer and multi instrumentalist, took the stage with an infectious energy. From the moment she sat at the piano, her talent was undeniable as she effortlessly weaved melodies that enraptured the audience. Valenzuela's expressive stage presence further enhanced the emotional depth of her performance. Her songs touched on themes of romance and empowerment, leaving a lasting impression on the San Antonio crowd.

As the lights dimmed, the theater buzzed with excitement, and thunderous applause greeted the Mexican pop duo. With genuine smiles and gratitude, Jesse & Joy embraced the crowd establishing a warm connection that would only grow stronger throughout the night.

Opening with the dreamy track "Imagina," Jesse & Joy transported the audience into a world of emotions, seamlessly blending whimsical and sorrowful melodies. The crowd swayed in unison, passionately singing along to hits like "Dueles," "Ya No Quiero," and "Chocolate." The duo's ability to create a safe space for fans to embrace their emotions was evident, with teary-eyed fans singing at the top of their lungs, empowered by the optimistic undertones in their music. The intimate setting of the Aztec Theatre allowed Jesse & Joy to create a grand experience, showcasing their status as pop-rock powerhouses. Throughout their performance, their backing band and lighting complemented the artistry, making every moment unforgettable. A moment of poignant introspection arrived when Jesse took center stage solo for two songs. Though the energy dipped momentarily, it served as a testament to the duo's authenticity and willingness to explore different emotional landscapes. The two-song encore, featuring the infectious "3 AM" and the emotional anthem "Corre!," was a triumphant finale that left the audience craving for more. The theater was awash with emotions as fans sang in unison, embracing Jesse & Joy's music as their own.

As the night concluded, the theatre was filled with cheers and applause, an outpouring of appreciation for the unforgettable experience that had unfolded. The night had been a celebration of Latin pop music, uniting hearts through the power of song. It was a night of musical brilliance that showcased the magic of music to transcend language barriers and connect people through shared emotions.