The Theatre at Ace Hotel was an idyllic venue to host a three night stand, the final nights of the Love and Rockets 2023 tour. Situated in the heart of Downtown L.A., the Spanish gothic-style theatre is a 1927 historic movie palace that set the mystical vibe for the night.
As this was Love and Rocket’s first tour in 14 years, fans lined up in droves to watch the iconic English rock band. Formed in 1985 by Bauhaus members Daniel Ash (vocals, guitars), David J (bass, vocals), and Kevin Haskins (drums,synthesizers). Bauhaus were trailblazers in goth rock music and continue to hail as one of the godfathers of the music scene. After Bauhaus’ collapse in 1983, and the end of Tones On Tail, Ash, David J, and Haskins reconnected and created Love and Rockets, combining underground post-punk rock and commercial pop music, paving the way for alternative music.
Opening act performance artist and musician Vinsantos captivated the audience with his beautiful, emotional songs. Vinsantos’s first full-length solo album A Light Awake Inside described as Glam Cabaret was produced by Love and Rocket’s David J. The haunting “Death Song” with bassist Agnes and Kitten on the keys had the audience spellbound. Another highlight of his set was his version of the Psychedelic Furs “Love My Way”.
As Love and Rockets hit the stage playing “Angels and Devils” everyone in the theatre jumped out of their seats. The band’s powerhouse 18-song set was enhanced by an incredible light show and backdrop. As the smokey haze of the lights shined on Ash, David J, and Haskins, they played “I Feel Speed” and “No Big Deal” from their 1989 self-titled album. For “So Alive,” one of the band’s biggest hits, they brought out guest vocalist Sharon for additional vocals and the crowd went wild dancing.
Another highlight of the set was “Haunted When the Minutes Drag” from their 1985 debut Seventh Dream of Teenage Heaven. The band’s energy never let up and got so intense during “Mirror People” from 1987’s Earth Sun Moon that Ash busted a whammy-bar sprng. The band came back for two encores, which included “Holiday on the Moon” from 1986’s Express. As the band played, a backdrop of the moon accompanied by strobe spotlights appeared and Vinsantos, Agnes, Kitten on the Keys, and Sharon were brought out on stage for background vocals. The last encore performed was “Sweet F.A.” from the 1996 album.
Love and Rockets put on a stunning show that was incredible to witness. The band’s energy was electric while playing so many timeless hits. It wasn’t just a show—but a powerful experience all of us in the audience will hold onto forever.
Review: I’m Music Magazine Writer Meesha Walden
Pix: Photos: Photos: © Kevin Estrada / @KevinEstradaPhotography
Love & Rockets
Vinsantos
