Ep 9. NATALIA LAFOURCADE / GRUPO FANTASMA

Natalia Lafourcade and Grupo Fantasma take the stage in the ninth episode of Austin City Limits' 43rd season, showcasing their unique sounds and talents. Lafourcade, a Mexican singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is known for blending genres like bossa nova, folk, and pop into her music. Grupo Fantasma, on the other hand, is an Austin-based Latin funk band that has won multiple Grammys for their distinctive sound.

Lafourcade starts off the night with her hit single, "Hasta La Raíz," which earned her two Latin Grammy Awards in 2015 for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. Her performance is vibrant and engaging, with her band bringing a lively energy to the stage. Throughout the night, Lafourcade showcases her versatility as both a vocalist and instrumentalist, taking turns at the guitar, ukulele, and keyboard.

Next up is Grupo Fantasma, who kick things off with "La Cruda," a track off their most recent album, "American Music Vol. VII." With their signature brass section, percussion, and electric guitar riffs, Grupo Fantasma brings the house down and gets the audience dancing. They also showcase their vocal prowess with tracks like "Cayuco" and "Montañozo," which feature complex harmonies and impressive solos.

The two acts then come together for a collaborative performance, combining Lafourcade's dreamy vocals with Grupo Fantasma's upbeat funk sound. They perform "Cielito Lindo," a classic Mexican folk song that gets a modern twist from the talented musicians. The performance highlights the chemistry between the two acts and showcases the versatility of Austin City Limits as a platform for diverse musical styles.

The night ends with Lafourcade's powerful rendition of "Mexicana Hermosa," where she sings of her love for her country and its people. The song is emotional and moving, and Lafourcade's delivery is heartfelt, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Overall, the ninth episode of Austin City Limits' 43rd season is a must-see for fans of Latin music and those looking to discover new artists. The combination of Natalia Lafourcade's unique blend of genres and Grupo Fantasma's infectious funk sound creates a memorable musical experience that will leave viewers wanting more. Austin City Limits continues to showcase a diverse range of artists and music styles, making it a cherished institution in the music industry.