The Marías @ The New Parish by Matthew Hoang

It was a quiet Wednesday night in Oakland as the rain of the day came to an end. Groups of friends waited in line to get inside the small and local venue, The New Parish, discussing their favorite songs by The Marias and how cool it was that they were performing in the community venue. As two opening acts fly by, the venue quickly filled up with a diverse crowd, from wall to wall, on the floor and second story. Drinks were finished, phones were down and lights cued as the crowd praised The Marias as they took the stage. Engaging eye contact with every side of the crowd, including those on the second story kept the crowd moving with the amazing voice of the lead singer. The in between moments were taken by the dominant horns in songs like Ruthless and Carino or by solos by the drummer who electrified the room. The Marias had an explosive sound when playing live that you can't get through Spotify. The band connected with the Central American crowd of people who enjoyed songs with Spanish lyrics. After an abrupt ending, the band took off and left. Lights dimmed and the confused crowd chanted for one more as the band came back one by one, performing two last tracks with all they had. Feeling more resolved, the band thanked Oakland and the night came to an end as crowds walked the block to catch the last few running trains home.
​

---

​Matthew Hoang is a Bay Area based photographer. Matthew enjoys shooting live music by local and established acts.
IG: @Matts.Hues