The eclectic artist Pinc Louds and the psychedelic-punk band Tropa Magica performed at the St. Lawrence Java Barn last Thursday, Sept. 8. Pinc Louds performed for the first hour of Java, followed by Tropa Magica. It was a performance not to be missed. 

Pinc Louds is a NYC-based artist led by the singer/songwriter Claudi Love (all pronouns accepted). At St. Lawrence, they performed solo. Pinc Louds have been highlighted in The New York Times, ABC News and Gotham for their socially distant street performances amidst the pandemic. 

East Los Angeles-based band Tropa Magica currently has three albums out. The band has performed alongside the acts of Los Lobos, Los Tigres del Norte and Chicano Batman. Tropa Magica is composed by the two brothers David and Rene Pacheco. 

The Java Barn was full of energy, making some seniors reminiscent of the “pre-covid” Java they have only seen glimpses of as of late. The plaintive wailing of Pinc Louds electrified Java, and the funk of Tropa Magica made it difficult to stand still. Mid-set, Pinc Louds broke a guitar string— but all was well, as they had a kalimba to shred on, as well. To introduce their last song, Pinc Louds riled up the audience with a piece of original poetry and then handed the stage over to Tropa Magica. In between sets, Kunoco made a guest appearance and handed out free pizzas.  

I don’t know what was in the air on Thursday night, but I could definitely feel the Java love that is often talked about.