The Belgian band Los Pepes is aiming to disconnect audiences from their devices and reconnect them with a simpler form of entertainment with their upcoming concert at the Centre Culturel de Bièvre on . The group, founded in , is known for its energetic performances and socially conscious lyrics, delivered with a blend of French chanson and global musical influences.
Los Pepes aren’t just offering a concert; they’re curating an experience. Dubbed a “concert à l’ancienne” (old-fashioned concert), the event encourages attendees to trade their smartphones for a “kit de concert à l’ancienne” – a playful collection of items like lighters and Polaroid cameras – fostering a more present and interactive atmosphere. The band is also introducing a new “immersion in the 1950s” theme for the Bièvre show, inviting audience members to dress in vintage attire to transform the venue into a “true village square of yesteryear.”
The band’s core consists of singer and songwriter Pierre Vanrenterghem and guitarist Pablo Vanhees, whose surnames provide the “two Ps” in “Los Pepes,” a nod to their Hispanic heritage. Since its inception, the lineup has evolved, most recently with the addition of French singer Elsa Puslecki, a former semi-finalist on The Voice Belgique. Puslecki’s arrival is described as adding a new layer of lyrical depth to the band’s sound.
Los Pepes’ music tackles contemporary issues – migration, war, poverty, and information overload – but presents them in an accessible and upbeat manner. They self-describe as “rebels in braces,” a playful image that reflects their willingness to challenge norms while maintaining a lighthearted approach. Their sound is a diverse mix, ranging from reggae-rock and Balkan music to Latin and oriental rhythms, all sung in French.
The band has released two albums, in and , and is currently working on a third. The lead single from the upcoming album, “La vie d’adulte” (Adult Life), was released in , with a music video directed by Pierre Morleghem of Cinacien.
The concept of the “concert à l’ancienne” is central to Los Pepes’ philosophy. As Pascal Dave of the Centre Culturel de Bièvre explains, the goal is to “make people and ideas move, entertain without dumbing down, bang on the table while tapping your foot.” The band aims to create a space for genuine connection, offering promotions for shared drinks and encouraging interaction between strangers. They envision a small, intimate venue where audiences can escape the constant distractions of modern life and engage with music and each other.
Los Pepes’ approach is a deliberate reaction against the increasingly digital nature of entertainment. By encouraging attendees to disconnect from their phones, the band hopes to foster a more immersive and communal experience. The “kit de concert à l’ancienne” is a symbolic gesture, representing a return to simpler pleasures and a rejection of constant connectivity.
The band’s music isn’t simply about delivering a message; it’s about creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. They describe themselves as proof that “you can be retro without being square,” suggesting a willingness to embrace nostalgia while remaining relevant and innovative. Their performances are designed to be both thought-provoking and entertaining, offering a space for audiences to reflect on important issues while enjoying a lively and energetic show.
The concert at the Centre Culturel de Bièvre promises to be a unique and immersive experience, offering a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the joy of live music and human connection. Tickets for the show range from €4 for children to €12 for adults, with student tickets available for €7 and general adult tickets starting at €8.
