The Reminiscent Vibes of Toro y Moi

Toro y Moi performing at the Greek Theatre, LA by David Anguiano

FINAL SHOW OF MAHAL TOUR PLAYED IN CINEMATIC FASHION

I was probably a freshman in high school the first time I heard Underneath the Pine. I remember adding “Still Sound” to the rotation of songs to listen to on a 4th generation iPod Touch on my walk to school before I was even sure how to pronounce Toro y Moi. I had 8 gigabytes of storage on that iPod; every song felt so detrimental to my adolescences.

As I walked through the press entrance, I couldn’t help but reminisce on small memories that serve almost like checkpoints through the journey of listening to Toro y Moi throughout the years. I think of the time I was sitting next to my high school best friend Uriel, in front of the A-building at my school, sharing a pair of headphones and being excited to put him on. I think of the time I couldn’t afford to see Chaz Bear and missing out on his set at FYF in 2013. I think of the friends I’ve connected with through mutual appreciation of albums like Anything in Return. It felt as if so much listening and appreciation of Chaz’ music had lead me to this moment. I was beyond excited.

Toro y Moi performing at the Greek Theatre, LA by David Anguiano

I kept pointing at the press pass sticker to venue security as they allowed me access throughout, and just as luck would have it, I realized I misplaced the battery on my digital camera. To add to my excitement (and nervousness), I would have to be shooting on all 35mm film tonight. Usually before a show I stumble around with a camera or two, awkwardly dangling from my neck as I explore the venue. This time however, I grabbed a bottle of water and sat right at the front of the barricade. Fans behind me are curious as to what I could see happening on stage. I see some roadies setting up towels and water for the artists on stage. Adjustments of lights and gear, and a man taping some sheets of paper with the set list of songs on the center of the stage floor right in front of me. Toro y Moi’s 7th studio album and 2022 release Mahal in its entirety covers the first half of the set list, followed by a second page of songs selected from Bear’s vast discography. “Mirage,” a personal favorite from Boo Boo kicked off the latter half of the show. I couldn’t wait. 

The lights dimmed and the fuzzy sound of Bear’s Stratocaster rang as the band jumped right into instrumental track “The Medium.” A neon LED circle radiated behind the artists as they cruised through the songs of the latest release. The Greek Theatre audience sang along to “Mr. Postman” and “The Loop.” By this time, I reached the end of my access to the photo pit. Two rolls of film done and stored away in my camera bag. As I walked out in the general admission area, Bear acknowledged the audience with a greeting. “If you haven’t noticed by now we’re playing the new album all the way through,” in an almost tongue in cheek way. He proceeded to reassure the crowd that they will cover some classics after the play through.

The band dusted off tracks from the last few albums, reaching back into Outer Peace, Boo Boo, and Anything in Return. Songs like “No Show” and “Fading” were performed for the first time since 2019. The illuminated LED circle continued to compliment the funky musicianship that Bear lead. The standing pit near the stage danced all night to the grooves of the band’s music. I stood impressed witnessing Toro y Moi performing live for my first time. Being able to shoot and enjoy the music of an artist I’ve followed for nearly a decade and seeing the joy it brought to others was a spectacular feeling. Bear put on a memorable show for everyone in attendance and thanked Los Angeles for the support. I’m grateful for Jacob, and everyone who supports MMC*, and I’m grateful to have been given the privilege to shoot such talented artists when presented with the opportunity, but getting to shoot Toro y Moi’s finale of the tour at the Greek Theatre felt truly unique. My 16-year-old self wouldn’t believe this. Check out the set list here!

PS: Check out our gallery of photos from the performance!

PS: Check out our gallery of photos from the performance!