Nathy Peluso’s Captivating Performance at The Novo in Downtown Los Angeles
The Novo, a beloved theater in Downtown Los Angeles, has always been a hotspot for emerging musical talents to showcase their skills. Its modest yet intimate setting creates the perfect atmosphere for artists to connect with their audiences. However, on a recent Saturday night, this venue transformed into a grand platform for the Argentine singer-songwriter Nathy Peluso. She not only utilized the space effectively but also left the audience yearning for more of her mesmerizing performance.
Nathy Peluso’s nearly two-hour concert was a testament to her versatility and artistry. She seamlessly transitioned between various genres, delivering powerful ballads, sharp raps, and lively salsa sequences, all while incorporating elements of Brazilian funk, EDM, and bachata. The setlist highlighted the best of her discography, with a special emphasis on her 16-song album, Grasa, which earned her three Latin Grammy Awards last year, including Best Alternative Song, Best Rap and Hip-Hop Song, and Best Long Form Video. Following this success, Peluso embarked on a European tour and her first-ever U.S. tour dates, with Los Angeles being the final stop.
The audience at The Novo was a diverse mix of age groups and cultural backgrounds, reflecting the universal appeal of her music, which she delivers in Spanish, English, and Italian. The general sections of the venue quickly turned into dance floors as fans mimicked Peluso’s energetic stage presence. During salsa-infused songs like “Mafiosa,” “Puro Veneno,” and “La Presa,” Peluso’s dynamic performance, which included theatrical elements like dancing against a makeshift cage, captivated the crowd. Her ability to connect with the audience through music and movement was nothing short of enchanting.
Peluso’s performance was not just about high-energy dance moves; it also featured emotional depth. She shifted seamlessly from lively salsa routines to heartfelt moments, at one point lying on the floor, her voice maintaining its rich vibrato and strength even as she moved across the stage. Her rendition of “Erotika,” a salsa track reminiscent of the 90s, showcased her ability to balance sensuality with musical prowess without the need for elaborate stage props or backup dancers.
Throughout the concert, Peluso’s stage presence was magnetic. She remained fully engaged with her music and the audience, creating a sense of connection and shared experience. Her confidence and swagger were evident, making the performance feel grand despite the absence of backup dancers or elaborate gimmicks. The brief moments she spent off-stage only highlighted her dedication and passion for her craft.
In the final moments of the show, Peluso reflected on her tour, describing it as “like a movie.” She expressed gratitude to the audience for being part of her journey, emphasizing that her story is still unfolding. The evening at The Novo was a memorable celebration of her artistry, leaving the audience in awe and eager for more. Nathy Peluso’s performance was a vivid reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and create lasting connections.
