Boston witnessed the electrifying return of Morat, Colombia’s chart-topping pop-rock sensation, as they bring the curtain down on their “Si Ayer Fuera Hoy” Tour. After a year of global touring in 2023, the band chose United States for their tour’s grand finale. It’s incredible to note the astounding growth within just one year—from a vibrant performance for 2000 fans at Big Night Live to an epic night at Agganis Arena where they rocked the stage for a massive crowd of around 7000 eager fans.
The concert kicked off in dramatic fashion as drummer Martin Vargas took center stage on a raised platform, where his drum set awaited him. Facing away from the audience, he skillfully initiated the show’s introduction. The powerful beats of the percussion set the tone, ushering in the opening song of the night, “Besos En Guerra,” as the remaining band members made their entrance amidst thunderous cheers from the audience.
On the left side of the stage, Simon Vargas entered dynamically, wielding his bass guitar. Meanwhile, on the right side, Juan Pablo Villamil strolled confidently to the stage, adorned with stylish black sunglasses and showcasing a fresh blonde hairdo—a symbolic gesture heralding a new era for the band. Positioned in the center of the stage, Juan Pablo Isaza assumed his stance, complete with his trademark hat. Renowned for his velvety vocals, he initiated the song, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance.
The band’s most recent offering is an EP titled “Antes De Que Amanezca,” featuring a collection of six captivating songs. Several tracks from this EP graced the set list for the show, infusing it with a fresh and dynamic energy and bringing a captivating twist to the musical repertoire we enjoyed in the previous year. Noteworthy additions to the performance included “Sobreviste,” “Tarde,” and “Feo,” each contributing to the show’s renewed vibe and showcasing the band’s evolving musical prowess.
The night was brimming with fan favorites, including the heartfelt rendition of “Mi Suerte” by drummer Martin Vargas, along with anthems like “A Donde Vamos,” “No Se Va,” and the poignant “Enamórate de Alguien Más.” The latter was a solo performance by Juan Pablo Villamil, creating a profoundly intimate atmosphere within the venue.
Adding to the emotional resonance of the evening, the band members engaged in brief yet impactful speeches before most songs, creating a wave of sentiment and priming the audience for each musical journey. However, the most touching and relatable moment of the show unfolded with the storytelling behind “Enamórate de Alguien Más.” As the singer shared the deeply personal narrative, some fans couldn’t help but be moved to tears, a testament to the genuine connection between the band and their audience.
The band serenades the crowd with “Llamada Perdida,” a nostalgic nod to one of their earliest hits, before exiting the stage, leaving the audience yearning for more. A thunderous chorus of fans passionately chanting “Otra,” meaning one more, reverberates throughout the venue, underscoring the palpable energy in the air.
Returning to the stage for an encore, the band delivers a memorable closing act with the infectious beats of “Como Te Atreves,” bidding farewell to their exhilarated fans. The atmosphere is electric, and as the final notes fade away, everyone in attendance is left riding the waves of a dopamine high, a perfect culmination to an unforgettable night.
As Morat’s musical evolution persists, the band is making strides into English-speaking territories, a notable endeavor showcased by their recent collaboration with English singer James TW on the track “Someone I Used to Know.” This marks the band’s first original song in English, showcasing their versatility and global ambitions.
In terms of musical style, one of Morat’s latest release, “Feo,” takes a nostalgic dive into the rock sound that thrived in the United States during the 2000s. The guitar introduction in this song not only mirrors the technical finesse but also channels a vibe reminiscent of the American classic “Mr. Bright Side” by The Killers. It’s a testament to Morat’s ability to seamlessly integrate diverse influences into their evolving sound.
Renowned worldwide for their distinctive pop-rock flair and unwavering commitment to preserving the authentic essence of a live band, Morat stands as a paragon of musical craftsmanship. Their dedication to portraying each instrument live adds an extra layer of authenticity to their performances, setting them apart.
As we witness a vibrant surge of Latin American representation in Boston, the anticipation for Morat’s return is palpable. We eagerly look forward to their future projects and the unique cultural resonance they bring to our city.
CATCH MORAT ON TOUR HERE!
LISTEN TO MORAT HERE!
PHOTO GALLERY BY:
María José Torre