Against the majestic backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks and the crisp mountain air of Buena Vista, Pretty Lights delivered a performance that was nothing short of a religious experience for the thousands of fans in attendance. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a pilgrimage, a sonic journey where the landscape itself seemed to vibrate in harmony with the music.
From the moment Derek Vincent Smith (DVS) and his band took the stage, the energy was electric. The crowd, a beautiful mosaic of long-time fans and new converts, was immediately captivated. DVS, a maestro of live electronic music, wove together a rich tapestry of funk, soul, hip-hop, and his signature bass-heavy beats. The inclusion of a live drummer and keyboardist elevated the sound to new heights, adding a spontaneous, improvisational feel that a traditional DJ set could never replicate. We were treated to classic tracks reborn with fresh energy, as well as brand new, unreleased material that left everyone clamoring for more. Every drop was met with a roar, every soulful breakdown with a collective sway.
And then, there were the lights. The moniker “Pretty Lights” is no exaggeration. The visual production was a work of art, a ballet of lasers, strobes, and moving lights that painted the mountain sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. The light show was perfectly synchronized with every beat, every melody, and every crescendo, creating a sensory overload in the best possible way. The lights didn’t just accompany the music; they were an integral part of the performance, telling a story and guiding the audience through the emotional arcs of each song.
What truly made the Buena Vista show memorable was the sense of community. This was more than a passive audience; it was a congregation of like-minded individuals, all united by a shared love for the music. Strangers were dancing together, exchanging smiles, and collectively losing themselves in the moment. It was a beautiful, powerful testament to the unifying force of music and the unique connection that Pretty Lights forges with his audience. The show was a stunning reminder of why, after a long hiatus, the return of Pretty Lights feels so necessary and so triumphant.