Lido Pimienta - “No Pude”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Sofi Tukker, Bjork, Jackie Mendoza

One of the most memorable sets I saw at SXSW 2018 was Lido Pimienta’s rich, psychedelic, and personable showcase, a fusion performance of Latin pop, African rhythms, and hypnotic soundscapes. That was in support of her Polaris-winning debut La Papessa and Pimienta just released her first new single since “No Pude”, a rhythmic builder that features what sound like Eastern melodies gently intermingling with tribal veracity. It’s right in line with the music of La Papessa but perhaps is even more purposeful and efficient, a cool marker for what will hopefully be a fuller release to coincide with her anticipated return to SXSW this March. (Kevin McStravick)

2018 Review: Easily one of the most personable and rich sets I caught at SXSW came right at the top of my first night’s schedule. Lido Pimienta strode on stage with knowing confidence, introducing her performance by announcing she’s four month pregnant and if she brings the heat, the crowd better keep up the same. That wasn’t a problem throughout the entirety of her eclectic, immersive set. The Colombian Canadian artist performs a fusion of Latin, electronic and modern pop, layered complexity built around rhythm and melody. Performing songs from 2016’s excellent La Papessa, Pimienta intermingled her empowering grooves with stories full of wit and candor. Politically minded but personally driven, the consistent vibe and message of ‘being proud of who you are’ set a tone that opened my SXSW own story in a perfect way.