El Paso Music Scene

KE article (2025)

Killswitch Engage
Jesse Leach - vocals
Adam Dutkiewicz - guitar
Joel Stroetzel - guitar
Mike D'Antonio - bass
Justin Foley - drums

Metalcore band, Killswitch Engage, from Western Massachusetts, can "bludgeon with the best of them or serve up the kind of sing-along banger you could blast with the windows down."

They are one of the top metal bands, with billions of streams and several Grammy nominations.

Their eponymous first album was released in 2025. The first successful metalcore album, Metal Hammer magazine called it one of the 20 best metal albums of 2000.

They will appear on March 11, 2025 at Don Haskins Center.

Up-and-coming Mexican R&B/Reggaeton trio (two singers and a producer, all brothers),
Latin Mafia (Instagram itslatinmafia), will appear 1/26/25 at Plaza Theatre.
 

Twin brothers Milton and Emilio de la Rosa are the singers; brother Mike de la Rosa is producer.
 

Their debut album, "Todos Los dias, todo El dia," was released 10/25/24.  In April 2024, they played Coachella, before having a label or album.
 

Biggest songs: "Julieta," "Sal Rosa," "Flores," "No Digas Nada." Each surpassed 2 million views on YouTube.
 

In the evolving landscape of regional Mexican music, a young artist has rapidly captivated hearts with his raw vulnerability and soulful delivery: Ivan Cornejo. At just 20 years old, Cornejo has become a prominent figure in the "sad sierreño" subgenre, resonating deeply with a generation that finds solace in his poignant lyrics and acoustic melodies.
Born in Riverside, California, Cornejo's musical journey began early. He picked up the guitar at a young age, inspired by artists like Eslabon Armado and the melancholic sounds that define sierreño music. What started as a personal outlet for his emotions soon blossomed into a burgeoning career, propelled by the power of social media. His early compositions, often shared on TikTok and YouTube, quickly gained traction, showcasing a maturity in songwriting far beyond his years.
Cornejo's breakthrough came with his 2021 album, Alma Vacía (Empty Soul), which featured the breakout hit "Está Dañada." The song, a poignant narrative of heartbreak and emotional turmoil, became a viral sensation, topping charts and introducing Cornejo to a wider audience. His music, characterized by its stripped-down instrumentation – typically just guitar, bass, and requinto – allows his emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.
What sets Ivan Cornejo apart is his ability to articulate universal feelings of sadness, longing, and youthful angst with remarkable authenticity. His songs often explore themes of unrequited love, betrayal, and the difficult process of moving on, themes that deeply resonate with his predominantly Gen Z fanbase. He doesn't shy away from expressing vulnerability, a trait that has fostered a strong connection with listeners who see their own experiences reflected in his music.
Since Alma Vacía, Cornejo has continued to release a string of successful singles and his 2022 album, Dañado (Damaged), further solidified his position as a leading voice in sad sierreño. He has embarked on successful tours, selling out venues across the United States and Mexico, a testament to his growing popularity. Despite his rapid ascent, Cornejo remains grounded, often expressing gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support.
Ivan Cornejo represents a new wave of regional Mexican artists who are pushing boundaries while honoring traditional sounds. His success is a clear indicator of the genre's expansive appeal and its ability to connect with diverse audiences through authentic storytelling. As he continues to evolve as a musician and songwriter, Ivan Cornejo is undoubtedly an artist to watch, a young talent whose evocative music promises to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Latin music for years to come.

Coldplay: A Universe of Sound and Emotion

From the soaring anthems that have filled stadiums worldwide to the introspective melodies that have soundtracked countless personal moments, Coldplay has carved an indelible mark on the 21st-century musical landscape. For over two decades, the British rock band has navigated the ever-changing tides of popular music, evolving from their alternative rock roots to embrace a kaleidoscope of sounds, all while maintaining a profound connection with a global audience.

The genesis of Coldplay can be traced back to 1996 at University College London, where frontman and pianist Chris Martin met guitarist Jonny Buckland. The duo, initially performing as Pectoralz, was soon joined by bassist Guy Berryman and later, drummer Will Champion, who solidified the band's lineup. After a brief period as Starfish, they adopted the name Coldplay and began their ascent.

Their debut album, Parachutes (2000), propelled them to international fame. Buoyed by the breakout single "Yellow," the album showcased a raw, melodic sound that drew comparisons to a host of established acts yet possessed a distinct emotional resonance. This heartfelt vulnerability, coupled with Martin's soaring vocals and Buckland's shimmering guitar work, would become a hallmark of their early work.

The follow-up, A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002), was a critical and commercial triumph, demonstrating a more expansive and confident sound. Tracks like the urgent "Clocks," with its iconic piano riff, and the poignant ballad "The Scientist" became instant classics, cementing their status as one of the biggest bands in the world. This era saw them garner numerous awards, including multiple Grammys.

Throughout their career, Coldplay has consistently demonstrated a willingness to experiment and reinvent their sound. The ambient and electronically infused X&Y (2005) was followed by the art-rock-influenced Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends (2008), produced by the legendary Brian Eno. This album, with its orchestral arrangements and historical themes, marked a significant artistic leap and spawned the anthemic title track, which remains one of their most beloved songs.

The subsequent years saw the band delve further into pop-oriented soundscapes with albums like the vibrant and colorful Mylo Xyloto (2011), the more somber and introspective Ghost Stories (2014), and the joyously eclectic A Head Full of Dreams (2015). While this shift alienated some early fans, it also broadened their appeal, leading to massive worldwide tours and collaborations with artists from Rihanna to Beyoncé.

More recent releases, Everyday Life (2019), Music of the Spheres (2021), and Moon Music (2024) have seen the band continue to explore diverse sonic territories, from gospel and world music influences to futuristic, space-themed pop.

Beyond their musical evolution, Coldplay is renowned for its spectacular and immersive live performances. Their tours are global events, characterized by stunning visuals, innovative use of light and color—most notably their signature xylobands that illuminate entire stadiums—and a powerful sense of communal celebration.

The enduring appeal of Coldplay lies in their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Their music speaks to the shared human experiences of love, loss, hope, and resilience, creating a powerful and lasting bond with their listeners. From their humble beginnings in a London university to their status as global music icons, Coldplay's journey has been a testament to the power of a great song to connect us all.