Los Bitchos @ O2 Ritz review: an immersive blend of Latin beats and nostalgia

After the launch of their bombastic sophomore album ‘Talkie Talkie’ (2024), Los Bitchos returned to the O2 Ritz to continue the party in the iconic Manchester venue. The trans-continental four-piece are known for their tightly constructed instrumentals that bring together the retro hits of the 80s with Cumbia and Latin rhythms. 

Comprising of Australian guitarist Serra Petale, Swedish Bassist Josefine Jonsson, South London drummer Nic Crawshaw, and Uruguayan Keytar player Agustina Ruiz, the band had huge success with their debut album ‘Let the Festivities Begin!’ which catapulted them from Glastonbury's Park Stage to Coachella. Their latest record fully leans into their 80s inspirations, packing synths and guitar solos to get the O2 Ritz’s infamous floor bouncing. 

Before the festivities could begin, the support act Faux Real burst onto the stage boasting all the theatrics of glam rock and rave-pop culture. With choreography synonymous with the great 80s boy bands that have come before, the Franco-American brothers Virgile and Elliott Arndt performed songs from their long-awaited debut album ‘Faux Ever’ (2024) and almost immediately claimed the O2 Ritz as their own. 

While the crowd were at first struck still in awe by their surreal stage presence, a performance comprised of incredible flute solos, acrobatic stunts, and audience interaction turned the venue into a dancefloor. In particular, ‘Love on the Ground’ and ‘Walking Away From My Demons’ from their new album stood out. The duo wrapped up their set with one of their early tracks ‘Kindred Spirit‘, bringing the spectacle to the centre of the crowd haloed by dancing flashlights. Faux Real are made to be seen live and they will undoubtedly be ideal party starters whilst supporting Los Bitchos on their entire UK and European tour. 

After the dazzling support had revved up the room, Los Bitchos walked onto the stage at 9pm to the infamous 80s anthem ‘Heaven Is A Place On Earth,’ which immediately got the crowd singing. It did not take long for the festivities to begin as the band launched into ‘Hi!’, the first track from their new album, signalled by the cry from lead guitarist Serra Petale to “get this party started!” There is no doubt that they did as the O2 Ritz broke into an unwavering groove. 

The setlist flowed seamlessly, blending fan favourites from both albums with ‘The Link is About to Die’ and ‘Pista (Fresh Start)’. The whole crowd swayed their arms in the air to the band’s signature dance move, as they moved on to their more funk and synth-infused hits ‘La Bomba’ and ‘Talkie Talkie, Charlie Charlie’. With vibrant bongo solos and axe battles, the fun from the stage spread over the audience, getting all ages immersed in the celebrations. 

Finishing up the night in high spirits, they played their crowd-pleasing version of ‘Tequila’ spawning conga lines across the venue as everyone tagged along for the ride. Los Bitchos left Manchester buzzing after proving once again that wherever they go, the party follows.

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