Written by Matthew W. Trexler with photos by Isabelle Taylor
On November 1 2024, Portland’s Wonder Ballroom transformed into a playground of vivid sounds and visuals, as Seattle’s La Luz and Texas-based Tele Novella brought their unique styles to the stage. The venue’s nostalgic layout, reminiscent of an old movie theater, was the perfect setting for a night that blended retro vibes with innovative artistry.
The evening opened with Tele Novella, a project born in the small town of Lockhart, Texas—a place they describe as “lost in time.” Their sound, a fusion of “classic and sincere pop” processed through what they call a “medieval-tonk machine,” has a timeless quality captured on cassette 8-track recordings. Dressed in Halloween costumes, each band member embraced a quirky, festive spirit that set a playful tone for the night. Their songs, rooted in an honest pop sensibility, resonated with the Portland crowd, who responded with enthusiasm and applause to each track.
As the lights dimmed for La Luz’s set, the energy in the room shifted to anticipation. Founded in 2012 by Shana Cleveland, Marian Li Pino, Alice Sandahl, and Abbey Blackwell, La Luz has steadily built a reputation for their surf-noir style—characterized by intricate vocal harmonies and a hint of the surreal. Known for albums like It’s Alive, Weirdo Shrine, and their most recent News of the Universe, La Luz’s unique sound seamlessly combines rock, psychedelia, and ‘60s-inspired surf vibes. The band opened with a mesmerizing back track, complemented by trippy, dreamlike visuals projected behind them. A large, shimmering silver sun prop set the stage for a performance that was both mystical and magnetic.
Despite a few technical hiccups during the show, the band and audience bonded through the minor setbacks. At one point, the crowd eagerly stepped in to assist, bringing everyone closer and enhancing the intimate experience. These moments of vulnerability not only showcased the band’s easygoing, personable stage presence but also underscored the inclusive, communal vibe of the night.
La Luz’s performance was packed with memorable touches. In addition to the striking visuals, an inflatable green alien was tossed into the audience, becoming a playful element that brought a lightheartedness to the night. Known for their energetic live shows that often include Soul Train-style dance contests, La Luz didn’t disappoint; the danceable rhythms and immersive visuals kept the audience swaying and engaged throughout.
With a near-full crowd, the atmosphere was lively and celebratory. The Wonder Ballroom’s cozy layout—with its upstairs and downstairs bars—allowed for an intimate concert experience that made each moment feel more personal. While reminiscent of the larger Crystal Ballroom, the Wonder Ballroom’s more intimate scale amplified the connection between the bands and their fans, enhancing the evening’s warmth and nostalgia.
Overall, La Luz and Tele Novella crafted a night of vibrant music and shared joy, from Tele Novella’s “loner medieval-tonk” soundscapes to La Luz’s surf-noir melodies. The blend of innovative sounds, playful props, and crowd interaction made the night an unforgettable celebration of music, creativity, and community.
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