Aaron Kroeger of Proxima Parada (Photos by McKenna Zolty)
SLO Brew and Rod & Hammer provided the ultimate local summer event with its second annual Surf Block Party on June 28.
Split into two sections, the party featured a free outdoor event with market vendors as well as performances from Shaky Feelin’ (Grateful Dead tribute band), The Salty Suites, Riley & Sage (of The Charities), and Miss Leo. In the evening, the event switched to the main stage with ticketed performances by opener Antonio Barret and the four-piece R&B band Proxima Parada.
The dimly-lit venue was equipped with velvet fabrics lining the front of the stage and bohemian-woven light fixtures hanging from the ceiling rafters. When the house lights went off, an orange hue spotlighted the drum kit. Drummer Aaron Kroger took the stage, playing an extended intro to “Photos on My Fridge” as the remainder of the band followed and began their soulful, dynamic set.
Performing 16 songs, Proxima Parada gave the audience a great selection of their music that worked for current fans or as an introduction. From deeper cut ballads to their Tik-Tok viral upbeat hit “Musta Been a Ghost,” there was something for everyone. The hour-and-a-half was the perfect close-out for the party.
Proxima Parada’s audience isn’t confined to a certain demographic, and the individuals in attendance expressed the versatility of the band’s rhythmic sound. The crowd varied in age, especially along the barricade where groups of friends were dancing: diehard fans singing along with the music as well as a mom with her young daughter.
The band performed “Pair of Shoes,” and lead singer Nico Larson expressed their enjoyment playing their only hometown show so far this year: “Feels so good to be back, SLO.” Taking a minute within the song, Larsen stepped to the front of stage to sing the chorus again with the audience as the musicians stripped back the instrumentals.
There’s a particular magic in live shows that can only be achieved in small venues. SLO Brew Live provides this small club experience, and Proxima Parada’s intimate performance and audience engagement felt more like a performance with friends than a ticketed event.