“Oasis: A Reunion with Nostalgia” in Mexico City

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always considered myself a music lover. Music has been a vital part of my life, and I’ve been fortunate enough to see my favorite bands both in my city and abroad. It all began about a year ago, when my social media feed started filling up with reels about a mysterious message displayed at one of Liam Gallagher’s concerts. At the same time, excitement was growing as that same message appeared in the stories of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. Then, for us, the generation that grew up in the ’90s, shaped by Britpop, speculation began about what that mysterious date could mean.

As the days went by, memes and conversations about the topic spread everywhere. Most of us thought it might be a special album release, but deep down, we all held onto hope and asked ourselves: could the Gallagher brothers finally forgive each other? Could there really be a reunion?

Finally, the day came, and tour dates in London were announced. My excitement, along with that of thousands of fans, was through the roof. I might finally fulfill one of my dreams: seeing Oasis live, for the very first time. Still, questions remained — would they extend the tour to other countries? In the meantime, I started making plans and crunching numbers to see if traveling to London could be an option. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible at the time. Weeks later, the news broke: the tour was coming to Mexico on September 11 and 12!

The return of Oasis represented much more than just a concert; it was a wave of nostalgia that carried so many memories. I was reminded of those glorious MTV days, when the music industry was completely different from what we know today, when concerts weren’t filled with cell phones, but lit by lighters instead of glowing screens; when there were no virtual queues, only long lines outside venues waiting for ticket sales to start a whole ritual to get the best spot.

The big day arrived. With the trademark English punctuality, the lights went out at 9:00 p.m. Amid screams of joy and disbelief, the screens displayed the words: “The great wait is over.” “It’s happening.” Seconds later, Liam and Noel appeared on stage, hand in hand, while the crowd exploded with emotion.

It wasn’t just lifelong fans who were witnessing what we once thought impossible, new generations who had only just discovered “Wonderwall” or “Don’t Look Back in Anger” were now getting the chance to live a unique experience too.

The chords of “Hello” echoed through the stadium, followed by “It’s Good to Be Back.” For nearly two hours, the GNP Stadium turned into a massive karaoke, everyone singing along to every Oasis hit. One of the most memorable moments was when they played “Cigarettes & Alcohol.” More than half of the audience already knew what to do — but Liam and Noel guided us through how to do the Poznań. We instantly embraced our friends, and even strangers, and jumped together as the song began. Between flying cups and beer, that moment became one of the concert’s highlights.

Despite his limited Spanish, Liam’s connection with the audience was unmatched. The night was filled with powerful emotions as we listened to “Some Might Say,” “Slide Away,” “Rock & Roll Star,” and “Whatever,” just to name a few gems that echoed for two unforgettable nights. Then it was Noel’s turn to give us stunning renditions of “The Masterplan,” “Little by Little,” and “Talk Tonight.” His greatness as both a songwriter and performer shone through in every note, especially during “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” which brought back so many memories and emotions.

My excitement was indescribable unlike anything I’d felt at any other concert. Oasis’s return wasn’t just any reunion; hearing their songs again left a deep mark on me. It symbolized the nostalgia of the ’90s and the memories that have accompanied me ever since friendships made and lost, failed relationships, moments of sadness and joy. Their music has undoubtedly been part of the soundtrack of my life.

Being able to experience those two concert nights settled the debt they owed to me and to all their fans  filling me with immense happiness that I’ll hardly ever surpass.

By _ _m_o_n_c_ | September 2025

“He always was Benito”

Benito’s residency at “El Coliseo” in Puerto Rico was more than just a regular show; it was an authentic love letter to the world, transcending the boundaries of music, language, and geography. The performance connected the audience in a way that words weren’t necessary, just a smile and a multitude of people dancing, having the time of their lives. 

Reggaeton has been a controversial genre over the years, often associated with explicit lyrics and catchy rhythms, loved and criticized in equal measure. But in Benito’s hands, it seems to be evolving, incorporating an original and unique blend of genres and collaborations that bridge tastes and generations. His lyrics touch the core of human passions, love for family, a partner, and even erotic experiences that anyone can relate to.

What particularly caught my attention is the humility and kindness he seems to radiate so authentically. It’s no wonder that Benito, an ordinary person like you or me, through his creativity and distinctive sound, has captured the attention of audiences, forging his own path in the music industry, a path that is far from easy. In a relatively short time, he has headlined international music charts, becoming a music icon and a worldwide reference for his culture.

The residency was curated in such a way every detail created a vivid mental environment even before the concert began. References to DTMF appeared throughout Puerto Rico, leading into a prior concert immersive experience where stop-motion explanations of certain Benito videos revealed “Little Concho,” a Puerto Rican frog in danger of extinction, as the main character. Symbolism, from pava hats and a wooden recording booth to domino tables and ice cream, all offer glimpses into the artist’s creative process surrounded by elements evoking childhood memories while reflecting the values and ideologies he holds dear.

During the concert, the most remarkable detail was the energy of the crowd. It felt like a massive New Year’s Eve celebration or a family gathering. People were dancing, the energy flowing smoothly and electrifying the space, a unique sensation complemented by a mountain-like stage shrouded in mist, a ceiba tree on one side, mock-up cameras flashing lights, and live salsa orchestras performing alongside, creating a massive block-party atmosphere.

A strong symbolism emerged when Benito began singing from the rooftop of a replica of his childhood home, located on the opposite side of the main stage. In my view, it was the most profound representation of an integrated person singing and dancing atop the memories that shaped him, fully embracing his family, his audience, and the significance of being present. Meanwhile, friends and fans both inside and outside the house joined in, dancing alongside the crowd, creating a shared celebration of connection and memory.

Benito has become the personification of self-evolution, following a path of light rather than succumbing to destructive or selfish patterns. His story is outstanding, and his altruistic projects have a positive impact on his community by supporting education and creating opportunities, even inspiring a class at Yale University that incorporates his art. Beyond his social contributions, his music has a profound cultural impact, serving as an avenue to understand the Puerto Rican diaspora and the experiences, struggles, and joys of his community. His authenticity, deep roots, and bold humanity earn him profound respect, and he truly embodies his own words: “He always was him, he always has been him, and he always will be Benito.”

The Editors | October 2025

“Just Do It, Homie” Backstage with GBH at The Regent

We arrived at The Regent around 7:45 PM. It was already dark, the kind of autumn night when the time change makes everything feel a bit later than it really is. As we drove past the marquee, the red letters glowed against the building: GBH, October 16. Seeing their name up there made me nervous, not unusual before shooting a band, but this time was different. Tonight, I wasn’t just photographing GBH. I was going to try to interview them, maybe even Colin himself.

The Editors and I had workshopped a short series of questions. We had them ready, and Mr. Green had sent them to my phone. I’d been invited by Jerry Ramone from Post Punk Productions to cover the night and get footage for GBH’s set.

We parked on the third floor of the lot across the street. The stairwell reeked of old piss, cigarettes, and weed smoke. The kind of grimy perfume every downtown parking structure seems to wear. Crossing the street, we checked in and received our media passes. No all-access yet that would come later.

Inside, Knuckleheads were midway through their set chaotic and fun, with boogie-board crowd surfing and Tom grinning at the pit. We decided to grab a beer to take the edge off well, at least I did. Mr. Green and I admired the pit and the band from the balcony as we sipped on Modelos.

Jerry showed up halfway through my beer and asked me to come down with him to get the all-access pass. As the first band ended, I followed him backstage and stood with him in the alley beside the door to the green room, trying to plan our next move. Then this guy opened the door that led to the alley and said hi to Jerry. I turned and asked, “You think they’d be cool if I asked them a few questions?”
We both shrugged neither of us really knew. Then the same guy said, “Just go in there, man. Tell them you want to take a portrait and ask a few questions. Be nice, but be confident. So far they’ve been cool people.”

That was the push I needed. I’ve been shooting bands for a while, so taking portraits wasn’t the issue it was the interview that had me nervous.

I called Julio Zerecero the GRM Co-Founder and told him I was going in. He said, “Just go for it. Do the interview.” My hands were sweating. GBH is one of my favorite bands. I used to skate to school listening to them on my old MP3 player. One of my first punk shirts was a portrait of them with big red letters reading GIVE ME FIRE.

My hand was on the handle of the green room door. I took a deep breath and walked in. I spotted Colin, wearing his classic motorcyclist leather jacket, short but charged blond hair, sitting on the red vinyl couch next to the old wooden piano. I stood in the corner near the fridge with the beer tap, camera in hand, thinking about what to do or say. The moment was here.

That same guy passed me again and said, “Just do it, homie. It’ll all be okay.”

I thanked him for the encouragement and walked toward Collin. He was talking with Fletcher Dragge from Pennywise. My heart was pounding. I saw my moment and asked if I could take a quick portrait and ask a few questions.

He smiled and said, “Yeah, no problem.”

I sat on the floor between Collin and drummer Scott Preece, pulled out my phone, hit record and the interview began.


The Interview

Introductions

Can you state your name?
“My name is Collin from G.B.H.”


Favorite Food

What is your favorite food?
“Cheese sandwich and a packet of blue Doritos.”

Right, the Cool Ranch?
“Yeah! Those Cool Ranch,” he laughs, pointing at Scott. “He’s probably going to say mushrooms… ask him.” (playful tone)


Songs That Help You Relax or Recharge

What song do you turn to when you want to relax or recharge?
“Aaahh… I have 100 songs like that. But I’ll say Chase the Devil by Max Romeo. It’s a reggae song… makes me feel chill.”


Early Inspirations

Who in your childhood first sparked your artistic flame?
“I remember watching an Elvis film when I was little. It was during the day, he was a fisherman, you know, and a diver. During the evenings, he’d sing at a nightclub.
I thought, ‘Wow… I want to do that!’ But I don’t do the diving; I do the singing, yeah! I think it was the one in Hawaii.”


People Who Inspire You

Could you share three people that have inspired you along the way?
“Johnny Cash… mmmmm… Joe Strummer.”

It could be in life too.
“Oh, in life too! Ahhhhh… I can’t think… another musician, Frank Sinatra!”


What Drives Your Art

What drives the purpose of your art?
“The love for music and everything that goes with it touring, recording, doing interviews, meeting people all the time. We go all over the world. We’re very lucky.”


The Feeling of Creating

Can you describe the feeling when you are creating your art?
“You have an idea in your head, a dream and you think it through, then you actually get to do it in life.”


Legacy

When you are gone, how would you like people to remember you?
“As I was. Hopefully with fondness. I won’t be around, so you know… you overthink things like that.”


Advice for New Artists

What guidance would you give to someone just starting in art or music?
“Follow your dreams. Don’t expect it to be easy. If you really, really believe in it, you gotta go for it.”


Childhood Hero

Who was your childhood hero?
“A guy called Tig Perry. He was a motorcycle rider. I used to go watch him race.”

Is that person still your hero?
“Yeah, yes he still is. His name is Tig Perry — T-I-G Perry. He was a motorcycle racer.”

Are you a motorcycle rider?
“Yes, I’ve done it. When I did it, I chose his number, 119. It was such an honor.”

Do you remember the model of your bike?
“Yes, it was an Antig Bike. Tig Perry used to manufacture bikes called Antig Bikes. I bought one on eBay and started racing.”

(He scrolls through his phone.)
“I can show you a photo somewhere… let me just look.”


Returning to L.A.

While you look, can you tell me how it is to come back to L.A.?
“Brilliant! We love L.A. Ross, our bass player, lives here. This might be more important. This is my dad and me.”

Wow, that’s so cool!
“My dad used to build and race motorcycles. His name was Terry, and that’s me when I was five.”

Did you get to ride that bike?
“No, I didn’t get to. I don’t know what he did with it.”


Inspiration After All These Years

What inspires you now after so many years of being a successful band?
“It’s brilliant being in a band. I love it. We’re always inspired because it’s never-ending.”


Memorable Moments & Final Words

What is your most memorable moment?
“More recently, we played in Mexico City. There were five thousand kids there! It was crazy.”

Is there anything else you would like to say?
“Be nice to each other.”


I got up and thanked them for their time, then asked Colin if I could take a portrait of him by the piano. He said, “Yeah, let’s do it.” He stood up straight, looking directly into my 16mm lens. I took three shots one vertical, one horizontal, and one slanted then one last frame of his boots. I thanked him again and told him I couldn’t wait to see the whole band on stage. I was super excited but kept my cool.

I walked down the slanted walkway leading from the green room door out to the alley. Looking up at the night sky, I laughed I couldn’t believe I’d just had that opportunity. I made my way toward the door that led to the back of the stage, pushed it open, and heard Slaughterhouse starting their set. I lifted my camera again and headed straight to the pit. One more band for GBH to go on. 

Huge thanks to Colin Abrahall of GBH for his time and energy.

Special thanks to Nothing Less Booking and The Regent Theater for having GBH at Los Angeles and creating such an amazing night.

By ZerGhoul

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