Tuesdays in July just got a little hotter this summer with Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals' residency at The Lyric Theatre on La Brea just south of Melrose here in Los Angeles. Last night, I finally made it to a show and let me just say I will be back next week. Thus far the artist line ups have been jam-packed with raw talent showcasing the diverse genres of the LA music scene. These type of shows are the reason why I moved to LA. Established artists like Shafiq Husayn of SA-RA Creative Partners and Brook D'Leau, who creates with San Pedro's own superstar Miguel, and is one-half of the ever so funky, soulful, trail-blazing, electronic artist, dynamic-duo J*Davey. As well as up and coming artists like Doja Cat and MNDSGN to those who have been making waves in the music scene such as Like of Pac Div and Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals ruled the stage. Live shows can make or break your love for an artist, and it's truly a skill to capture and keep the attention of the audience. I was completely captivated last night by all the performances. They were all so different yet complemented eachother so well. The Lyric Theatre is an intimate venue that allowed you to feel and connect with the artist, which is also worth noting.
Upon arrival the vibe was nice. DJ Skitz set the tone with his selections accompanied with the corresponding music video projected above the stage. The host for the evening, Verbs, kept the show lively and moving in the right direction by interacting with and getting the audience involved. MNDSGN set things off with his on-the-fly, electronic sound experience on his Roland SP-555. He will release his debut album on Stones Throw Records this fall. Like of Pac Div came out and dropped some junglist-trap-slap-banger remixes on us to activate the TURN UP in us all. Brook D'Leau shared some of the gems his been crafting up, and to our surprise Jack Davey came out and sang their new song! It was such a treat. Being a big J*Davey fan and to have this all unexpectedly unfold right between our ears! Man! So pumped! haaaa
At this point I'm thinking okay the show climaxed it can't get much better than this. Then, Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals happened. Let's just say I wasn't ready. I've come across the name Breezy Lovejoy aka Anderson Paak, but I wasn't familiar with his music. It was a great first impression to see and hear him do it live. He's got "IT". The energy, the bad boyism, the talent. I mean how many vocalists have you seen give there all in a vocal performance then jump on the drums and continue with the same intensity and passion. It was pretty dope. I'm a new fan. The Free Nationals were also rockin' it out on the 4-string bass, electric guitar, keys and DJ Skitz even added accents of some turntable action to complete the musical experience. The arrangement of their set was in sync. I don't know how often they rehearse, but it seems like they have their performance "dressed to the nines". It was sharp. I've attended many shows, and stage presence and performance is everything. They played with my emotions. Just when you thought the set was over, and Anderson Paak is wiping away all the sweat from his face, say a few smooth things to the audience. Then, BAM, all of a sudden we were right inside of the next song. Dope, beyond dope.
Next up was Doja Cat, and this is where the story ends for me. It was like being awaken from a wonderful, wonderful dream. I had to leave the show unexpectedly, and I feel totally incomplete. I'm just sayin' haaa From what I did see and hear. I totally dig what she's bringing. I'm familiar with her music and you can find a few of her cuts on a couple Really Not Radio shows. She's still a mystery to me, which keeps the music exciting. Hopefully, I catch her performance tomorrow during the Soulection TSOT show or in the very near future.
Last night was sooooo good. I'm mos def anticipating the big reveal of next week's lineup. It's the last show, so I'm sure it will be a killer finale. Ooooh who's it going to be??? Anywho, I suggest you be there. Only if you want that real good, feel good music. Check out some of the above artists' music below and make sure you connect with them on your favorite social network to keep up with all the sweet, sweet music.
Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals
J*Davey
Doja Cat
Shafiq Husayn
Like of Pac Div
MNDSGN