California daydreamer Omar Banos, better known to the swooning masses as Cuco, has just dropped his first original release of 2018, a lovesick prog-rock journey called “Sunnyside.” Cuco’s characteristic undulating waviness is all over the song, swaying from bar to bar as if shuffling through a dreamy high school dance.
The 19-year-old Hawthorne native’s youth and earnestness have sparked much conversation, but “Sunnyside” suggests a rapidly maturing sound. Cuco’s guitar skills are no joke, and as an artist constantly defying expectations, he is challenging his audience to embrace him as more than the nerdy kid behind the keys. Last summer’s “Lo Que Siento” showcased his skills as a multi-instrumentalist with the song’s delightful closing trumpet solo, and on “Sunnyside,” Cuco trades in the low rider vibes for masterful shredding and full-throttle Pink Floyd space jams.
“Sunnyside” is only the beginning of what is gearing up to be a massive year for Cuco. The song comes ahead of his headlining Together Tour alongside August Eve and Jasper Bones, kicking off on February 19 and heading to multiple cities in California, Texas, and the Southwestern U.S. A forthcoming EP and appearances at Coachella and Governor’s Ball will also give fans plenty to look forward to, but perhaps the biggest move will come with the launch of Cuco’s own streetwear line called Fantasy’s Easy Living. The singer and his team will host a pop up at Hawthorne vintage shop MF HDN on February 3, so make sure to swing by and cop a hoodie – or three.
Catch Cuco on tour with Lido Pimienta and Helado Negro until January 28.
UPCOMING TOUR DATES WITH LIDO PIMIENTA AND HELADO NEGRO