Def Con Dos and Strawberry Hardcore are household names in Spain and Mara Gilbert is an integral part of both of them. I first met Mara and Cesar Strawberry in a club in Madrid a couple of years ago. Since then both of them and the rest of the band members have not only accepted "El Guiri" as a photographer, but also become friends. I have photographed Def Con Dos at festivals and venues across Spain, but not Strawberry Harcore - so when the band invited me along to Concerts Del Pinar as part of the crew, it was an offer I wasn't going to turn down! We hung out backstage and here is what Mara had to say: Hi, great to see you here today at Pinar. How are you and how are you feeling about the festival? It’s so great to see you again with your camera in hand, moving around a festival! I’m really happy to be here. I think it’s such a cool place to play, with a great lineup and in this amazing setting. Tell me about Strawberry Hardcore – is it like Def Con Dos or something completely different? It’s a very different project from Def Con Dos, and that actually makes it more interesting to be part of both bands. With Strawberry HxC we move away from rap metal and dive into hardcore and punk, which gives you some really fun possibilities when it comes to singing the songs, especially with those wild lyrics César has written for this band. Last time I saw you, it was at Viña with DCD. Since then you’ve had loads more DCD concerts, Strawberry Hardcore events, released a new song and video – how do you manage to fit everything in? Being really organized is essential to make sure everything fits and every detail works in the schedule so we can do it all the best way possible without missing anything. It helps a lot to be surrounded by people who keep the whole machine running smoothly. César and I work really well together, and that makes handling many aspects of both bands much easier. On top of that, we’re lucky to have amazing professionals around us, like Samuel Barranco – someone you can always count on to get the best out of anything he does. Talking of a new song and video – “Punk Forever In The World” has been getting amazing press reviews. Tell me about it! We’re super happy because, as you said, it’s got a really positive response from both the public and the media. I might not be the most objective person to say this, but I think it’s such a solid song! I was really excited about it because it was my first one with the group, and getting to record it with someone as legendary and professional as Daniel Alcover was a real privilege. And filming the video was a fantastic experience too – dancing in those dark, graffiti-covered tunnels was something else! When you’re not touring or in the studio – how do you like to kick back and relax? I have to admit my lifelong guilty pleasure has been video games. They’ve always been there in my downtime – though funnily enough, the ones that relax me the most are the hardest and most frustrating! I also absolutely love going up into the mountains, taking a walk uphill and soaking in those breathtaking views. It’s like escaping into another world – an incredible feeling of peace. If you guys could perform with any band (dead or alive!) who would it be and why? Years ago I went to a Bloodhound Gang concert and I remember thinking, “Damn, these guys are having the time of their lives on stage – it must be amazing to be up there with them.” So maybe as a tribute to that old memory, I’d say them, even though they’re not a band I’m especially into nowadays. But honestly, I would’ve had a blast performing with Fat Mike and the rest of NOFX! Who are your musical influences? I’ve always been proud that my musical taste is a mix of my family’s. Since I was little, they always took me to festivals and concerts. Thanks to that, bands like NOFX and Bad Religion have been a part of my life since childhood, but also artists like the Australian Nick Cave, and iconic Spanish bands like Lagartija Nick. You gotta choose – DCD or Strawberry Hardcore. Killer question! Who would it be? You’re evil and you know it! Haha. I truly enjoy playing in both bands – it’s such a gift to be part of two projects that allow me to do very different things. Singing those DCD anthems that we’ve all grown up with and feeling the crowd sing along with you is otherworldly, it always gives me such a thrill! But I think I have more fun on stage with Strawberry Hardcore – I feel like I can give more of myself, and the little girl who grew up listening to melodic hardcore and punk is right there on stage dancing with me, happier than ever! What’s next for Mara, DCD, and Strawberry Hardcore? With Strawberry Hardcore, we’re putting together a small tour for the autumn, so now it’s time to go full speed ahead with DCD this summer! We’ve got quite a few festivals lined up in the coming months, and I’m really excited to give it our all everywhere we go! Do you have a message for the fans out there? Honestly, I can only express my deepest gratitude. Joining two such legendary bands and being welcomed so warmly by the fans in both cases has been incredibly moving. It really motivates me to keep working my hardest. And above all, I’d say: keep enjoying the concerts like you do! It’s amazing to see you all out there from the stage, so fired up, moshing, singing the songs… That energy is just fucking awesome. Thanks Mara - as always we could spend the day chatting about music, puppies, bands and everything else! Thanks, Rhyan! – it’s always a pleasure talking with you, and I can’t wait to share more festivals and stages with you and your camera! And with that she was gone - transforming like a mysterious superhero. One minute chilling and chatting backstage, the next commanding the main stage with the rest of the band. Long live Def Con Dos & Strawberry Hardcore! If Facebook is your thing then check out: Mara / Def Con Dos / Strawberry Hardcore Or if you are more of and Instagram person: Mara / Def Con Dos / Strawberry Hardcore Interview and photos: Rhyan Paul

T he Human League’s July 15 show at Conciertos De Viveros promises a stylish evening of polished synth-pop, dynamic LED-driven visuals, and nostalgic hits—all set against the enchanting backdrop of historic Jardins De Viveros . Whether you’re reliving the ’80s or discovering the band’s magic live for the first time, it’s a must-attend date this summer. Get your tickets now and prepare for an atmospheric, melodic flashback set in Valencia’s summer heart. Other Conciertos De Viveros events include: Caravan Palace, Simple Minds, Europe, La La Love Yo u and many more! For more information and tickets: Conciertos De Viveros

When Natalia last played in Austin in 2019 at Austin City Limits Festival, I remember it for two different reasons. For starters, she played the same day as The Cure and I had to make the difficult decision to miss her set. And secondly, this was around the time of one of her peaks in popularity in the US. By the time she rolled into town there was no escaping hearing her music. "Hasta la Raíz" was on all of my playlists, I contributed to probably 100 of her Tiny Desk performance views, and I'd even gone to a wedding that played "Amor de mis Amores" during the cake cutting. Had it been anyone else but Robert Smith and Co, I would have been at her stage watching her set. I finally got my chance to see her last week when Natalia returned to Austin on June 5th, 2025, in support of her latest album, "Cancionera". The album was produced by Adan Jodorowsky and was recorded live on analog tape with 18 musicians (including Hermanos Gutierrez who seem to be everywhere nowadays) and captured in single takes. For her tour, Lafourcade brought the same intimate experience to the stage with a twist - a concept where music, theater, and visual storytelling converge to create a unique concert experience. From the beginning you could tell that this was going to be a unique evening. The bars that flank both sides of the pit were closed, with only the small back wall bar serving patrons briefly before a pre-recorded announcement from "Radio Cancionera" asked everyone to make their way to their seats and turn off their phones. The recording encouraged attendees to have their own experience and to not record or photograph during the set to increase the personal impact. When the show began, the evening unfolded as a career-spanning journey through musical personas, each marked by distinct costume changes that aligned with the setlist's thematic sections. Throughout the evening, Lafourcade paid homage to the cancioneras and cancioneros who came before her—the traditional songwriters and storytellers who form the backbone of Mexican musical culture. Lafourcade's deep reverence for the people who came before her was palpable. She mentioned multiple times that this was an homage to those who paved the path for her - giants such as Chavela Vargas, Lino Chavez, and Juan Gabriel. But while Natalia paid reverence to the greats, in her final act she established firmly where she stands in this specific moment in our cultural zeitgeist. Prior to launching into "Un derecho de nacimiento," Natalia took a moment to recognize the anti-immigrant rhetoric and enforcement from our current administration. Just as the music of those cancioneras served as cultural touchstones during their eras, Natalia's music functions as a similar beacon today. Her songs and lyrics have become part of the soundtrack of both Mexican pride and resistance—threading through social media posts, protests, and moments of cultural affirmation as communities face an unprecedented wave of anti-immigrant rhetoric. Natalia may be reverent towards the greats, but everyone in that room was there to see her, another beloved cancionera in the country's long line of musical heritage. She and her songs touch something deep within all Mexicans and Latinos, and in times like these, her music serves as both comfort and defiance. Find Natalia Lafourcade at the following: Instagram, Facebook, and her own website of course. Her latest album is streaming everywhere you scroll for music. Words and photos: Victor Gonzalez

Raveena Brings Meditation to Scoot Inn | June 4, 2025 | Scoot Inn, Austin Deep into her set, Raveena guided a crowd of sweaty concertgoers through "Let Your Breath Become a Flower," her signature meditation track she performs at her shows. For about three minutes, the chatty audience at Scoot Inn went completely silent. I'd read about this moment in other reviews and always assumed it would be forced or out of place. But experiencing it live, it was evident how well Raveena built her set so it flowed naturally. That moment captured everything about her performance—anything Raveena attempted felt effortless and fitting. Her voice moved seamlessly between jazz runs and Indian classical techniques, backed by traditional instruments that felt natural rather than familiar. When she sang in Hindi during "Kehna Hi Kya," it was a reflection of who she is as an artist. Renao opened with smooth R&B that showed off his strong vocals. The London-based artist, who describes his sound as "Frank Ocean meets Harry Styles," brought a polished bedroom-pop sensibility that complemented the evening's intimate vibe. Raveena's set worked because she didn't oversell anything. When she switched to a Britney-style headset mic for "Secret," the pop-star theatrics felt as natural as her earlier Indian classical vocals—a testament to how effortlessly she pulls from the entire spectrum of global culture. Austin got a performance that trusted the music to speak for itself, with moments of genuine surprise along the way. Find Raveena at: Instagram, Website, and streaming everywhere. Her latest album "Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain" is available on all platforms. Find Renao at: Instagram, and streaming everywhere. His EP "A Space Between Orange & Blue" is available on all platforms. Words and photos: Victor Gonzalez

Rachel Chinouriri Brings Infectious Energy to Sold-Out Empire Garage - June 7th, 2025. The line stretched down the block from Empire Garage on Saturday night, a testament to the anticipation surrounding Rachel Chinouriri's Austin debut. Originally scheduled for Parish, the show was moved to the larger Empire Garage to accommodate demand—a smart move considering the British-Zimbabwean artist's first-ever North American headlining tour has been selling out venues across the country leading up to her Bonnaroo set on June 13th. BIZZY kicked things off with a tight 25-minute set. The Maryland native songwriter-turned-performer brought her alt-pop anthems to a nearly full house ready for a night of open-hearted vulnerability. For someone who used to be "terrified of singing in front of a crowd," BIZZY was a natural. Her engagement with the fans, vulnerable lyrics, and frenetic energy won over the audience immediately. Alemeda continued building the evening's momentum with her own brand of introspective alt-pop. The Ethiopian-Sundanese artist has a remarkable ability to package heavy subject matter into something you can still move to, and her warm stage banter made the garage feel more like an intimate living room than a concert venue. When Rachel Chinouriri finally took the stage, Empire Garage exploded. Rachel and the audience fed off each other's energy, and it continued to build and build the longer the night went on. In between songs, Rachel would speak directly with fans and would often elicit some of the loudest yells and cheering I've ever heard at Empire Garage. She charmed Austin by calling Paprika the best tacos she's had and even gave the owners tickets for the show that evening. Similarly to how Tamara Jiji eloquently shared in her review of the tour's stop in Los Angeles, "Her palpable buoyancy cast a spell upon every occupant of the room, leaving no audience member still." But seeing it in person was something completely different, and it became evident that this won't be her last time in Austin, although I highly doubt we'll catch her at Empire ever again. Find Rachel Chinouriri at: Instagram, Website, and streaming everywhere. Her tour continues through June with stops at Bonnaroo and beyond. Find BIZZY at: Instagram, Website, and streaming everywhere. Find Alemeda at: Instagram, Spotify, and streaming everywhere. Words and photos: Victor Gonzalez

This summer, Murcia’s legendary Plaza de Toros is about to be lit up by a haze of hip-hop history as Cypress Hill rolls into town on July 3, 2025 , bringing with them their unmistakable blend of West Coast rap, Latin swagger, and psychoactive beats. With over three decades of trailblazing behind them, Cypress Hill — the first Latino hip-hop group to go platinum — are still as potent and relevant as ever. From the weed-fueled anthems of “Hits from the Bong” and “I Wanna Get High” to the explosive energy of “Insane in the Brain”, the crew promises a night of gritty beats, booming bass, and anthemic choruses. The group’s lineup — anchored by the gravel-throated menace of B-Real, the stoner-philosophy of Sen Dog, and the sonic wizardry of DJ Muggs — has seen a resurgence in recent years thanks to the success of their 2022 album Back in Black and their status as living legends of the genre. Their live shows are a riot of energy, smoke, and nostalgia, with an edge that still cuts sharp. Murcia’s Plaza de Toros, known for its atmospheric architecture and electric acoustics, provides the perfect open-air battleground for Cypress Hill’s high-octane set. Expect a crowd ready to chant every line, fists in the air, with the scent of rebellion (and perhaps something more herbal) thick in the air. Whether you grew up on their ’90s classics or discovered them through their influence on acts like Rage Against the Machine and Run the Jewels, Cypress Hill’s Murcia performance promises a night that blends timeless hip-hop with raw, unfiltered attitude. Don’t miss this rare chance to catch the kings of hazy hardcore in the heart of Murcia. Light it up — Cypress Hill are in town. For tickets and more information: Ibolele

On July 1st Conciertos De Viveros returns to the Jardins De Viveros for another fantastic edition, with 18 concerts spread over 25 days. A vibrant 18-night concert cycle aspart of Valencia’s iconic July Fair (Gran Fira)  . Expect a wide-ranging lineup featuring 7 international acts and 11 Spanish artists, spanning pop, rock, jazz, flamenco, salsa, electro, and urban sounds. This year's lineup includes: La La Love You , Simple Minds , The Human League , Europe and many more. Conciertos de Viveros 2025 promises to be the must-attend musical highlight of Valencia’s summer: a rainbow of genres, stellar Spanish and global talent, enchanting surroundings, and a kick-off moment you won’t forget. For tickets and more information: Conciertos De Viveros

Get ready for an unforgettable night in Oliva! Legendary Spanish rock band Seguridad Social is set to bring their electrifying energy to the stage for Fira i Festes 2025 on June 20. With a career spanning over four decades, the Valencia-based group promises a vibrant, high-octane performance filled with iconic hits like “Chiquilla”, “Comerranas”, and “Quiero tener tu presencia”. Known for their dynamic fusion of punk, ska, reggae, and Mediterranean rhythms, Seguridad Social has become a staple of Spain’s live music scene. Their concerts are pure celebrations — bursting with rhythm, nostalgia, and infectious energy that gets everyone dancing. This special performance in Oliva, just a short drive from their hometown, will be a highlight of the town’s summer festivities. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their sound for the first time, this is one show you won’t want to miss. Admission is free and the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric. Mark your calendars and get ready to sing along — Seguridad Social is coming to light up the night in Oliva! For more information on this concert and all the other events: Fira i Festes Words and photos: Rhyan Paul

Carlos Santana and his world-class band are bringing their Oneness Tour to Valencia , offering a masterful showcase of Latin-rock fusion. Expect incendiary guitar solos, soulful melodies, and a pulse that blends rock, jazz, blues, and Afro-Cuban rhythms—hallmarks of Santana’s legendary sound  . Prepare for an evening rich with classics like “ Black Magic Woman ,” “ Oye Como Va ,” “ Smooth ,” and “ Samba Pa Ti .”With new material from recent releases such as Sentient (2025) joining the setlist, the show promises both nostalgia and discovery  . The open-air Auditorio Marina Norte creates an atmospheric setting, balancing Valencia’s summer warmth with a cool sea breeze—ideal for a relaxed yet electrifying concert experience  . Santana’s stop in Valencia is shaping up to be a highlight of the summer concert season. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering his music live for the first time, this blend of emotional guitar mastery and cultural fusion in a seaside venue is not to be missed. Don’t wait too long—grab your tickets and get ready for a night under the stars led by a rock legend. Tickets are selling out fast - get your now: Santana Valencia

Rabolagartija returns for its 9th edition on Friday, August 15, and Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Polideportivo Municipal in Villena , Alicante. This two-day celebration of alternative and world music promises lively performances, camping, poolside chilling, and a strong sense of community . This years line up of incredible acts includes: La Raíz — returning to the stage for the first time in six years and a fixture at the festival  . El Drogas, Koma, La Fúmiga, Porretas , and O’Funk’illo rounding out Friday’s powerhouse lineup  . Boikot, La Fuga, Riot Propaganda, Kaos Urbano, Kaotiko, Envidia Kotxina , and more will be rocking the stage on Saturday. The diverse lineup caters to both festival newcomers and long-time fans with Camping + shaded pool packages offer a relaxed escape from daytime heat and family-friendly zone and accessible facilities cater to all ages. The Polideportivo Municipal venue offers a compact layout, ensuring an interactive, energetic festival atmosphere with close access to artists and stages. Rabolagartija 2025 has all the elements of a memorable summer escape: powerful live acts, communal camping, festival spirit at every turn. For fans of Spanish punk, world-music fusion, political lyricism, or simply good vibes under the summer sky—mark your calendars for August 15–16 in Villena. Tickets are selling out fast - secure yours here: Rabolagartija

Marky Ramones Blitzkrieg returned to Sala Moon, in Valencia on June 10th June and performed Ramones classics to a sell out eager crowd. The evening kicked off with the infectious energy of "Do You Wanna Dance?" and "Havana Affair," setting the tone for a relentless set that spanned nearly 40 songs. The band, featuring Marky Ramone on drums, Iñaki “Pela” Urbizu on vocals, Marcelo Gallo on guitar, and Martín Sauan on bass, showcased impeccable chemistry and precision. Their performance was a masterclass in punk rock, with each song delivered at breakneck speed, capturing the raw spirit of the original Ramones lineup. Iñaki “Pela” Urbizu, known for his work with La Excavadora, brought a dynamic presence to the stage. His energetic performance and authentic delivery resonated deeply with the audience. Songs like "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker," "Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue," and "Rockaway Beach" were met with enthusiastic sing-alongs, reflecting the crowd's deep connection to the music. At 72, Marky Ramone proved that age is no barrier to delivering a powerful performance. Behind his drum kit, he was a force of nature, maintaining impeccable timing and energy throughout the set. His presence was a testament to the enduring legacy of The Ramones and the timeless appeal of punk rock. Marky Ramone's Blitzkrieg at Sala Moon was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of punk rock's enduring spirit.The band's tight performance, coupled with their genuine passion for the music, created an unforgettable experience. For those who missed it, the echoes of that night will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. Check out Marky Ramone here: Marky Ramones Blitzkrieg

The night of June 7 at the Jardines de Viveros was a musically varied experience, thanks to the feast of rhythms of Iboga Nits. As the golden hour cast long shadows across the historic Jardines de Viveros, the festival’s signature fusion of world music, rave, and psytrance was already palpable. The chilled Iboga vibes mingled with chatter and the clinking of drinks, setting the stage for a vibrant night . Kicking off the evening was the high-energy Balkan‑gypsy orchestra, La Trocamba Matanusca. From upbeat brass fanfares to klezmer-infused swing rhythms, their set was a fun explosion. Their dynamic performance turned the crowd into a spontaneous dance party—easily carving out the night’s first unforgettable moment . follow on, Sicilian‑turned‑Jamaican reggae legend Alborosie, accompanied by Shengen Clan, brought the heat. With classic anthems like Kingston Town and Herbalist reverberating through the garden, their deep roots-reggae and dub flavors anchored the set in soulful authenticity. The shift to laid-back grooves offered a perfect cool-down, and the audience bathed in rhythmic positivity by the last chord. To close the live bands of evening, Muchachito Bombo Infierno brought raw charisma and a charismatic journey through his eclectic repertoire—ranging from street-music roots to rock-tinged anthems. His set, dubbed Stories of Being Muchacho, had the crowd singing along by the second chorus, warmed by his boundless energy and stage presence. The night transitioned seamlessly into electronic realms with Amygdala, the Catalan techno wizard, delivered a sharp, acid-tinged set that elevated the mood—trancey yet grounded. Mandrágora then obliterated expectations with his explosive psytrance soundscapes, crafting a visceral experience where sound and crowd dissolved into collective euphoria . Iboga Nits at Nits de Vivers on June 7 was a masterclass in sonic alchemy. It balanced rich cultural roots with modern electronic explorations, delivered in one of Valencia’s most atmospheric venues. Whether you were caught up in a brass-fueled dance or surrendering to a reggae sunset, the night offered something magical at every turn. Definitely one for the memory vault—and a shining standout in Valencia’s 2025 live-music agenda. Words & photos: Rhyan Paul And the people that made the night magical!