PHOTOS: Pussy Riot smash Los Angeles debut at the Lodge Room with powerful performance

The freshly open LA venue, Lodge Room is just a bit over a month old and is already having hot sold-out shows. Last night, a Russian powerhouse came to town and landed in Highland Park. Pussy Riot, the protest punk rock band that has been openly political since inception came to the Lodge Room filling it with intensity. […]

by FarahSosa

December 13, 2017

Pussy Riot. Photo by Farah Sosa

Pussy Riot entered the stage dragged in body bags. They came out of the body bags singing with face masks on, but shortly after they unveiled their personas. It was a show to be seen, to say the least. Clad with props, masks, authoritarian uniforms, flags and strength — Pussy Riot’s songs denounced realities and they embodied their lyrics throughout the performance.

Pussy Riot. Photo by Farah Sosa

Pussy Riot’s feminist anthem “Straight Outta Vagina” got the audience pumped. It featured Long Beach rapper Desi Mo who joined them on stage and was also the opening act. Although the band is mainly punk rock, some songs had inevitably seductive tunes to sway along, while others had sweet vocal harmonies blended with what seemed to sound like indie influences. Pussy Riot’s statements were strong, “cause vagina’s got a lot to say.”

Desi Mo was a surprise for me. It was my first time checking her out, she came as a trio and their energy was impressive. Desi Mo’s performance lasted about 20 minutes, not enough for all that female power but sufficient to keep an eye and ear on this artist.

Pussy Riot headline another sold-out Los Angeles gig tonight at the Bootleg. Hope you’re going!

Photos and Words: Farah Sosa.