On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Mexican goth rock legends Caifanes performed their first show of the year, gathering their masses in the beautiful and historic Aztec Theatre in San Antonio, TX. Emerging from Mexico City in the late ‘80s with a deep love for Mexican folklore and bands like The Cure and King Crimson, Caifanes blend poetic lyrics with post-punk aesthetics and traditional Latin rhythms. Addressing topics ranging from love and horror to spirituality and social issues, the group, led by Saúl Hernández, became pioneers of alternative rock in Mexico and greater Latin America.
The Aztec is a particularly cultural theatre, and its personality – complete with glowing red-eyed Aztec heads that hang at each side of the dark stage – was a perfect match for the band performing that night. Caifanes, who have performed in San Antonio and at the Aztec Theatre every year for several years, entered the stage at 9:00 p.m. (no opener necessary). A roar grew from the multi-generational crowd of goths and music lovers.
Opening with “Aquí No Es Así and closing with the thoughtful encore song of “Clandestino” by Mano Negra (a poetic song about a migrant without papers, existing in between borders), the band eased through nearly 20 songs, some rich and dark, others bouncy, every one performed with vigor and magnetism.
“This is the second time I’ve seen them, and they were as wicked and wonderful as ever!“ said attendee Lucio Aguilar, of San Antonio.
Photo at top is by Serenity Autumn.
