Photos and review by Jennie Book
@jenniebookphotography

Texas-based indie rock band Vortxz performed at the Echoplex in Los Angeles on February 26, and gave their loyal fanbase a full, fun night of music that had everyone singing and smiling ear to ear for the whole 20+ song set.

Vortxz has a big sound for a trio, and was founded by lead singer and songwriter Isaias “Rambo” Rodarte, Noe Rodriguez on lead guitar and keys, and Jonathan Lopez on drums. Their sound moves between new wave-leaning indie rock, rock en español, and pop, and the live arrangements went heavy on rhythm, melody, and vocals from a frontman who has stage presence beyond his years.

From the start it was clear that the crowd was there specifically to see Vortxz and weren’t just out for a random night on the town. Fans sang along for the whole set, eager to participate for favorites like “Esperando,” “Que Voy a Hacer,” “Show Me,” and “My Love.”

Rodarte mentioned at one point that he’d been under the weather, but there was no sign of strain in his vocals and no lack of energy in the way he jumped around onstage and kept engagement high. Lopez’s drumming provided a tight track for the trio, and Rodriguez stood out for his skills on guitar, and also for being able to switch between guitar, bass, and keys as needed. He even did a little frontman-singing towards the end of the night.

The Echoplex’s acoustics were great, and the stage was well-lit– this photographer appreciated being able to actually see the band onstage instead of having to fight hard for any non-red light, as is the curse of most shows lately.

Opening the night was csndra, out on her first tour with her own as a trio. Her set warmed up the room, and her new song “lovesick!” got her some new fans for sure. She can be found at @csndrajolie.

Vortxz ended the show with everyone in the crowd yelling for them to keep playing, but all great things must come to an end. For the latest news and tour info, check out www.vortxzhq.com and @vortxzofficial, and be sure to give tour photographer / merch king @joel.mcjia a follow for bts and band info.