Carolyn Lederach 8/28/24 Carolyn Lederach 8/28/24

Omar Apollo @ The Mann Center - Philadelphia

August 25th 2024: Omar Apollo, Malcolm Todd @ The Mann Center - Philadelphia, PA

Omar Apollo | Photos Courtesy of Carolyn Lederach

Omar Apollo made his God Said No Tour stop in Philadelphia on a perfect Sunday evening, August 25th. It was one of those rare Summer shows where the weather perfectly matched the feeling of the music. There was a small chill in the air, accompanied by the ominous fog filling the stage. This was a long time in a while since I felt that an artist put careful thought into every produced moment on stage. From the subtle backing dancers incorporated, but not overdone. The white backdrop of the stage embraced the outfit changes. The moody lighting and stage props are also delicately incorporated throughout the set. Omar’s performance was also perfect, with a carefully planned setlist that flowed flawlessly throughout the night and spanned a lot of his vast catalogue. This was my first time getting to see Omar, and there was zero disappointment with this show. I was excited to also experience the “Pedro” track live, while Omar was fitting in a wardrobe change his dancers took a few moments to show off their moves, while we also took in the perfect words from Pedro Pascal.

Malcom Todd

Photo Ladies 5/11/22 Photo Ladies 5/11/22

Omar Apollo @ Riviera Theatre - Chicago

May 5th 2022: Omar Apollo with Deb Never @ Riviera Theatre - Chicago

Omar Apollo - Photos Courtesy of Emily Nava

On May 5th, 2022, Omar Apollo and his band brought the Desvelado Tour to Chicago at a sold-out Riviera Theatre. Opening acts Tora-i and Deb Never got the crowd ready with great performances.

Playing hits from his debut album "Ivory" and previous releases, Omar Apollo had the crowd's attention when he stepped on stage. Certain warm energy was in the room that night, with newer fans and those who have watched his career bloom since he first started playing at smaller venues in and around Chicago years ago. The show had its high-energy moments when Omar Apollo played more upbeat songs such as "Kickback" and "Tamagotchi" but showed vulnerability with more slowed down songs such as "En El Olvido". No matter the song tempo or language Omar Apollo sang in, the crowd sang along to every word and that alone is a testament to how successful he has become.