Water Seed Gives Audiences a Pulse-Pounding Performance at The Bitter End

Water Seed put on a funkadelic set at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

There are few bands that are able to lift you from your seat, get your ass dancing and shake you to the core. This month, at The Bitter End, we came across a seductively ferocious, untamed and blistering hot act that had the entire venue moving their hips – forcing us to fall victim to the funkalicious grooves and electrifying vocals of this incredible New Orleans based band.

Water Seed live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed is soulfully wicked, progressively complex and dynamically elegant. The indie-band’s indulging appetite for keen musicianship, passionate lyrics and uncontainable energy illustrate Water Seed’s versatility that spans the sounds of funk, jazz, gospel and soul. Deeply rooted in rhythm and classical music, Water Seed seeks to rekindle a unique flame in independent music that relishes on originality and creativity.

J Sharp on the keys live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Originated by multi-instrumentalist Lou Hill, Water Seed delivered a high-energy performance equipped with affable melodies and an innovating sound that's conquered the hearts of audiences nationwide. Water Seed stunned us all that evening with empowering vocals, gorgeously soothing beats and romanticizing keys – coupled with a funk-infused style that had the West Village pumping.

Lou Hill was an incredible force on drums and played a perfect host for the packed out Bitter End crowd. We were hooked by Hill’s groovy rhythms and agile beats, providing a volcanic addition to Water Seed’s dominating showcase. His drum play was gripping, ill and explosive. Thoughtfully tooled with personality and charisma, Hill’s soulful and jazzy performance had us on our feet the entire set.

Lou Hill getting down on the drums at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Jentleman Sharp’s (J Sharp) fantastic play on the keys offered a tendered and sophisticated sound that resonated from the keyboardist’s savvy and polished compositions. His performance was breathtaking – poised, charismatic and lean. His play levitated us from our seats, calling us to focus on him and the band as a whole. His acute sense of strategic music arrangements offered more depth and complexity to Water Seed’s already multifaceted sound.

Shaleyah on vocals at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Shaleyah and Berkley the Artist sing away at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Lead singers, Shaleyah and Berkley the Artist, were outstanding throughout the evening. Their soulful and gospel-esque vocalists carried the room towards the stage and never let us go. They elicited powerful melodies and tantalizing hymns that paired perfectly with the bands Nawlins party funk and choir praising style. Along with an array of orchestral-trained instrumentalists and renowned flutist, Chinese, Shaleyah and Berkley conquered the legendary Bitter End with a party-like atmosphere that collectively struck our desires of great music and dance.

Chinese on flute at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed is not only one of the biggest emerging artists coming out of the Big Easy – they’re a movement – a transforming marathon that graciously offers a unique infused look at how contemporary funk, jazz and soul should work together. Stemming from the sounds of both new and old, this high-energy, electrifying future-funk coalition has funked the hell out of some of the biggest joints in the country. Along with a relentless advocacy for empowering rhythms, soulful melodies, church wailing vocals and just straight up funkadelic rifts, Water Seed is a game changer in the independent music scene.

Berkley the Artist and Chinese live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

This is a must watch for anyone who wishes to experience an electrified show filled with blood-pumping music and an impressive live act. Get funked up with this revered all-star cast today and catch them in a city near you.

Water Seed

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Humankindition Offers a Breathtaking Performance During Exclusive Release Show at Club Bonafide

Humankindition at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

The Fox and King paid witness to newly formed jazz electronic band, Humankindition, last Thursday as they put on a gorgeous performance at Club Bonafide during the exclusive release show of their new single “Daydreaming.”

In front of an intimate crowd at the legendary music venue, this euphorically dangerous live act displayed a level of musicianship that masterfully blended the sonic scopes of jazz, soul and electronic music together. We were fortunate enough to be one of the first to get our hands on Humankindition’s latest single from an exclusive download card handed out to all guest in attendance.

Samir Zarif (Saxophone) and James Quinlan (Bass). Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Blown away by the brilliance of their artistry, Humankindition’s rich compositions highlighted for us the quartet’s strategic music arrangements and genre-binding depth that garnered such a soothing, yet gritty performance. Lead by veteran saxophonist, Samir Zarif, Humankindition’s creativity provided a cloud of complex instrumentation that released a storm of jazzy-esque elements, conquering beats and mind-cleansing soul engulfed in musical euphoria. The band’s commanding, yet gentle touch, lifted us firmly from our seats and cradled us within a pacifying state of tranquility.

Samir Zarif at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Samir’s skillset on the sax was phenomenal. Truly excellence at it’s finest. His instrumentation was innovative, breezy and dynamic. On their new single, “Daydreaming,” Samir illustrated the complexities of his musicianship through a gracious sound that whispered gently through our ears, shepherding progressive and soulful harmonies that allow this genre to feel refreshing.

His superior command of the sax on “Innocent Complex.” peppered a fresh entrée of alternative jazz paired masterfully with a decadent flow of urban soul and spiced-up beats. His fine play throughout the night formed an ocean of relaxation that kissed you on your ear with every wave, while forcing you to brace the elements with an explosive and captivating sound.

Tommy Hartman on drums. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

James Quinlan on Bass. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Bassist, James Quinlan, and drummer, Tommy Hartman, added a supportive touch to this incredibly awesome set with soul-tendering bass play and core-shredding beats. Quinlan’s funky, yet delicate compositions added a depth of complexity that forged a unique sound to this already progressive four-piece act. His soulful rhythms and hospitable musical range coupled beautifully with all members on stage, increasing the levels of their excellence.

Tommy’s petulant and voluptuous rhythms challenged the genres status quo with an intuitive urban sound that portrayed confidence and action. His sounds usurped the presences of hip-hop and urban funk that sustained the band’s character and utility.

Arcolis Sandoval on the keys. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

The latest addition to this versatile electronic jazz band, pianist Arcolis Sandoval, displayed on an awe-inspiring performance on the keys last week, providing a sentimental range of delicate harmonies, groovy rhythms and a luscious attitude. Sandoval’s command of the keys offered a sweet condiment to the bands hunger for creativity and thirst for originality. Her craft was smooth, gripping and seductively powerful – clearly an addition that allows this band to take the next generation of this genre to new heights.

Arcolis Sandoval & Samir Zarif live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Humankindition is defined through its passion for human connectedness and progressively meaningful music that illuminates origination and creativity. With deep influences that span across Radiohead, Thundercat and Bjork, Humankindition composes music that reflects the essentials of human existence – mesmerizing audiences in a trance of futility that frees the mind of past thought and future worries. Their music allows others to embrace their utility and acceptance – a soundtrack of songs fit for the present moment. Truly a series of work that all must experience.

Humankindition might just be one of the emerging sounds you might hear five to ten years from now in a genre grappling between old and new. The astronomical talent that exists within these four artist’s instrumentation is astounding and is a must listen to anyone that appreciates the aesthetic and sentimental pleasure the sound of jazz gives us.

Humankindition live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

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American Pinup Leads a Stellar Indie-Line up at The Fox and King's Annual Farewell Summer Show

American Pinup at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Last weekend, we bid the summer season adieu with our 5th annual Farewell Summer Show at New York’s famed Arlene’s Grocery. Our closing party featured a stellar line up of indie-rock trios that crushed the stage with a gut-pounding performance and electrifying sounds that pulverized its way across the Lower East Side.

In front of a hands-on crowd that Saturday evening, Mala Vista, FREAKABOUT and American Pinup reverberated the sounds of 70’s punk rock, early 90’s grunge and alternative heartland rock that helped forged the halls of the famed LES venue twenty years ago. Each band displayed a roaring, smoky and exhilarating live performance that blew us all away. Coupled with detailed lyrical compositions and complex musical arrangements, these emerging acts set blaze to a storm of sonic energy, gripping vocals and static chords that set new standards for how our Farewell Summer Shows should be.

Myke Miranda on the strings and vocals at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Mala Vista kicked off the show with a late 70’s punk rock statement synonymous of the days when The Ramones and the Clash blew the lights out on every corner of The Bowery and East London. Their presence on stage was commanding, economical and innovative. The dominance of their grungy-esque sound, elevated vocals and driving guitar licks portrayed a level of confidence and a no-nonsense attitude that forced us to listen and pay attention.

On Mala Vista’s punk anthem “Bare Bones,” lead vocalist/guitarist, Myke Miranda, portrayed a politically charge vocal that catapulted an array of expressive notes and an oppressing reach. Bassist, Manuel Labour, and drummer, Jordache®, set off an explosive supporting role with exceptionally lean beats and a vicious baseline. With accompanying performances of several covers, this band was an amazing opening act that helped prepare the crowd for the rest of our closing party.

Jordache on the bass at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Another impressive act that evening, FREAKABOUT, came all the way out from Omaha, Nebraska to kick off their national tour with headliner, American Pinup. Both bands had their anchor dates the night before and were sharing the bill together for a second-straight time in New York. The four-piece act, embedded in classic rock’ n’ roll, steer-headed a dynamic performance with an abundance of energizing sounds, vicious guitar riffs and conquering beats.

Cortney Kirby’s powerful, yet sensual voice, embraced our ears with powerful lyrical compositions that sent our minds floating in a mist of rock and pop melodies. Her roaring vocals portrayed a gentle touch that took command of the audience and guided them through a heart-pounding experience through a journey of how rock ‘n’ roll music is supposed to be.

Aaron Galvin ripping the guitar. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Cortney Kirby on vocals at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Aaron Galvin’s kick-ass guitar play blew the amplifiers and speakers away with a thunderous assault on the strings, echoing the sounds of heavy blues and hardline rock. Along with drummer, Ian Francis, and bassists, Ben Frerichs, FREAKABOUT put on a masterful live performance that elicit a unique heartland and hard rock sound that had audiences bobbing their head and moving their hips.

American Pinup headlined our Farewell Summer Show with a galvanizing performance that swept Arlene’s off their feet. The three-piece alternative-punk and pop-rock band was sonorously provocative with fist-clenching vocals, leathery beats and an unyielding guitar play that pressured us to breakdown the walls.

Lauren West at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

With thoughtful music arrangements and seasoned lyrical depth, front crooner, Lauren West, provided a boisterous indie-rock howl that was both versatile and gripping. West’s savvy and rapturous melodies generated edgy hooks and a rousing punk-rock attitude that twisted itself around the band’s music and lyrical structure. John Casale’s vicious drum set rendered a stringent assault of hard-iron beats and impetuous grooves that drew from the band’s expressive punk-rock persona and pop rock explosiveness. Along with a juicy baseline by bassist, Tim Robbins, American Pinup showed us why they're one of the most robust and versatile live acts in the indie-scene today.

John Casale on drums and Tim Robbins on bass at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Each year we try and pull off something magical and different for you – the fans – for our annual Farewell Summer. Whether it’s extra merch, more bands on the bill or deals at the door, we’ve always put our friends, audiences and artists first: this year was no different. This was truly something special. With three insanely impressive bands, a great crowd and good vibes, this year’s Farewell Summer Show blew the doors off. With a gnarly pro-expressive attitude, these indie live acts provided gut-busting rhythms, savvy grooves, beefy vocals and flaying electric riffs that came out and conquered us all, allowing us to fall victim to the music that we heart the most: rock’ n’ roll. We couldn’t thank you all enough for being with us for the taking.

Listen, like and follow Mala Vista, FREAKABOUT and American Pinup below. Also check out our show recap on our You Tube page below.

Show Recap

Mala Vista

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FREAKABOUT

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American Pinup

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Don DiLego Puts on a Foot-Stomping Performance at The Bowery Electric

Don DiLego & band at The Bowery Electric. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Alt-country artist, Don DiLego, gave us a foot-stomping performance at the Bowery Electric this month during his impressive record release show for his new album Magnificent Ram A. Along with a bottle of bourbon and a few bales of hay, DiLego’s astonishing seven-piece band rocked the stage as they wooed the sounds of western Americana and some feel good rock n’ roll in front of a packed-audience.

Coupled with fellow indie-folk artists, Linda Draper and Emily Duff, the Velvet-Elk crooner commanded an impression collection of musical arrangements that gently carried the crowd through a cowboy’s journey – synonymous with the old whiskey saloons and boot strapping jamborees of the great west. DiLego’s outstanding performance provided a collage of rich complex melodies that had us both moving our hips and singing along to the indie-folk singer’s dynamic vocals paired masterfully with a gritty acoustic sound.

Don DiLego performs at his record release show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

DiLego performed the majority of his songs from Magnificent Ram A throughout that steamy Thursday evening, portraying his innovative delicacies both on stage and in his new record. DiLego’s music provided a range of indie-folk harmonies, graceful melodies and the pride of blue-collar heartland rock. DiLego’s mastery was illustrated perfectly on stage with the harmonious beauty “Go Pack Your Suitcase” and the soothing gospel-esque tune of “Running in Place with a Desperate Heart.” With every heart-felt note, DiLego’s caressing vocals and comforting rhythms passionately embraced the crowd, encouraging us to follow his carefully orchestrated compositions that profoundly detail DiLego’s precise musicianship.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

DiLego’s complex sound and on stage depth, however, howled for audiences to jump on their feet during DiLego’s alt-country jams, “Drive Like a Pirate” and “I’m on Fire.” Here, we witnessed a contrast to DiLego’s phonic sound with a gritty savory arrangement to his music along with an his incredible relationship with his already endearing fans, mustering them together as they sung and dance to his Americana tunes. DiLego’s country anthem, “The Westside Oak” had us all stomping our feet and clapping, revealing the versatility that exists with DiLego’s on-stage presence.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Linda Draper and Emily Duff provided a perfect mesh for DiLego’s record release show portraying both indie-folk harmonies and gospel-esque chords to the brewing audience for DiLego’s headline set. Draper’s tranquil vocals and in-depth storytelling delighted the on-hands crowd, drawing them closer to her tender musical arrangements that soothed listeners as they eased their way into the Bowery’s main stage.

Linda Draper performs at The Bowery Electric. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Duff’s acoustic trio provided an incredible blend of folk, gospel and heartland rock n’ roll throughout their impressive set. Along with guitarist Scott Aldrich and Skip Ward on the “gut bucket bass,” Duff’s sensational compositions and powerful lyrical ability provided audiences with an array of bible-belt blues and Americana novelties.

Emily Duff performs at The Bowery Electric. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

After witnessing Don DiLego's incredible performance, it is safe to say that the indie-folk rocker is in a class of his own. Gathering amongst the sounds of old country and contemporary rock, DiLego has set the bar for how the sound of modern country should be. His ingenious lyrical ability and savvy storytelling technique places us, as an audience, in the boots of the modern cowboy, and within the heart and pride of blue-collar Americana, in each of his works.

Don DiLego at The Bowery Electric. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

DiLego’s dynamic energy on-stage and the utilization of his flourished cohesive sound, makes him one of the best singer-songwriters in the genre. DiLego’s emerging status within the alt-country scene has made him a must-see act whose music we highly recommend for you to listen. His new album, Magnificent Ram A, is out now on digital, streaming and vinyl via Velvet Elk Records/One Little Indian. Follow and listen to Don DiLego today!

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French HipHop/Blues Band Scarecrow Put On a Roaring Performance at Drom NYC

Very rarely do we get the chance to witness a group of music who can grasp the sounds of different cultures so effortlessly and harness them as their own. With the power of a roaring bluesy vocal, a groovy baseline and a smoking late 80’s/early 90’s sound, Scarecrow - The Blues Hip Hop showed us how artists can successfully master that calling. 

With much thanks to the combined efforts of The French Embassy and Bureau Export, Scarecrow showcased their talents for the France Rocks SummerFest in New York for the first time in over two years last Friday. We caught their performance at the mysteriously intimate and gypsy-esque Drom NYC amongst a group of music enthusiasts excited to take part in the French quartet’s latest act as they prepared for their second album, The Last, releasing this coming Friday.

Scarecrow’s featured performance was a spine chilling and aggressive piece that spoke of the band’s ingenuity and aesthetic appeal. Ahead of a thunderous and enticing intro, lead vocalist and bluesman, Slim Paul, let out a roaring vocal that channeled across the shadowy halls of Drom, crawling up its back-stage curtains and hurling towards us. It was a unique sound that truly blew us away: A kick-ass note that personified beautifully through Paul’s affirmed lyrical and edgy voice, labeling its mark at any New Orleans jazz club or Memphis BBQ joint.

What followed was a genre binding and sound twisting bar from French emcee, Antibiotik Daw, who also masterfully scratched the turntables with late 80’s/early 90’s urban adlibs, screeching hints of Chuck D, Run DMC and The Wu Tang Clan. Although we unfortunately couldn’t understand the fast hitting French lyrics, it was Antibiotik’s confidence, swag and all-out vibe that helped get our heads bopping, while the bluesy bass lines from Jamo and funky drum set from Le Pap, helped solidify Scarecrow’s urban and bluesy musical arrangements.

What really struck us was Scarecrow’s consistency. Whether their song was predominately hip-hop, blues, funk or a bit of both, the quartet meshed the sounds together flawlessly. When Antibiotik viciously spit on the mic, Slim Paul's raw vocals and Jamo's gripping guitar play brought Scarecrow's performance from the sounds of classic hop-hop into the essence of rock. Accompanied by Antibiotik’s scratches, we were constantly taken for a musical ride that stopped along 80’s hip-hop, 70’s funk and good old fashion dirt-road blues.

Scarecrow’s hip-hop elements, raw rural bluesy notes and urban-esque vibe provided the finishing touches on an already bubbling melting pot that billowed a steam enriched with generations of musical influences, cultures and instrumentation. Scarecrow’s continuous efforts to bridge together American and French music are groundbreaking. With sounds reminiscent of both Screamin' Jay Hawkins and 90's Hip-Hop, the group truly is deserving of their international praise. Their ability to embrace these different sounds allows them to conquer audiences in not only the U.S. or Europe, but throughout the world as they've performed over 400 shows in 10 countries and have a tenacity to produce even more.

This group can truly be an inspiration to aspiring artists and bands across the globe not only for their incredible showcases, gritty music, and cool vibes but for how they can bring cultures together. Somehow we seemed to have lost that in both the mainstream and independent music scenes, but Scarecrow tackles it head on. Truly, they are one of the best bands we’ve seen this year. Can’t wait to catch these guys again. Their new album, The Last, will be available for streaming and digital download this Friday, June 24, 2016. Make sure to catch Scarecrow the next time they’re in your city!

Make sure to listen and follow to Scarecrow – The Blues Hip-Hop music below.

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Raye Zaragoza Offers a Bluesy New York Farewell at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood music Hall. Photo courtesy of Larufoto

Saturday nights in the Lower East Side are typically crawling with artists and their guitar cases rushing to their next gig and filled with partially belligerent fans scattering about to find the nearest music venue. But last night, Rockwood Music Hall housed a one-of-a-kind bluesy, dreamy, folky, and all together beautiful showcase from Raye Zaragoza; your new favorite singer-songwriter.

When Raye takes the stage she resembles the presence of a revolving door. It’s as if every time she opened her mouth she would deliver a seemingly flawless note with more and more people rushing in from the streets.

Raye is a New York based singer songwriter who has been training in live music for years. Unsurprisingly, given her natural talents, it gives me no pause to learn that her father is Broadway actor Gregory Zaragoza, who had her started at a young age. Her sound is seasoned, technical, classic, and effortless at the same time.

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye has been a part of the music scene here in New York for years, frequenting venues like Arlene’s Grocery, The Knitting Factory, and Bizarre Bar in Brooklyn. Back in 2013 she was even a featured artist at LA Skins Music Fest, which must have inspired her in someway, seeing as Raye is now relocating to Los Angeles.

“All my songs are about New York, I don’t know what I’m doing going to LA. What am I going to write about?” Raye jokes in between songs. 

The room was so involved in her, she had them completely captivated. Through the crowded audience, I couldn’t tell if it was her beautiful lyrics about love, heartbreak, and New York City, or if it was her undeniable beauty and genuine stage presence, that had everyone so enchanted. But regardless, the room was silent as she sung, and roaring with applause when she finished.

Christian Nourijanian (left), Raye Zaragoza (center) and Tim Bassom (right)

Raye’s sound is reminiscent of Norah Jones, Billie Holliday, and Eva Cassidy. She’s a strong vocalist, but perhaps even a stronger writer. Her arrangements are simple, clean and highlight the lyrics of her songs. All of which are relatable without being boring, and beautiful without being over the top. Her EP, Heroine (available on SoundCloud and Spotify), is a beautiful collection of songs that represent her vibe perfectly: a classic and moving artist.

Though this is her farewell show in New York, to end things Raye just sweetly says, “thank you,” as she strums the last note on her guitar- because this is not goodbye - you'll being seeing amazing things from this girl from here on out.

Stay up to date with her music and live stream the Heroine EP below:

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All The Way From Nashville, Jet Black Alley Cat Blew New York City Away

On a Saturday night mission to find what was next in the New York City music scene, we stumbled across something amazing at the very well-known Lower East Side venue, Pianos. We had no idea who would be playing that night or what genres were in store for us but all it took was simply seeing the name of the opening band on the night's bill - Jet Black Alley Cat. After heading upstairs to the second stage of the venue we sat down, ordered some drinks and prepared ourselves to hear exactly what this group was about. When vocalist Joe Wilkinson ran through some vocal warm-ups the entire floor stood attention to see what was in store, and needless to say, they put on one of the best shows we saw that night. 

Coming out of Nashville, Tennessee on a tour stop in New York City, the self-proclaimed "Vintage-Pop/Rock-Groove" group had the crowds dancing with every song and jumping with every snare beat. We were hypnotized throughout the entire performance by the powerful echoing vocals, the catchy melodies, and the unique indie/dance vibes that were reminiscent of late night dance clubs, crowded venues at 2AM, and roaming the streets after leaving the bar. Their latest single, ROXY, especially caught our attention. The group truly comes together on this one in every way between the narrative lyrics and vintage electric sounds. Not only is this radio quality music, it's what Top 40 music should aspire to be.

The five-piece band consists of Joe on vocals, Zach Douglas and Christian Harrison on guitar, Cristofer Johnson on bass, with Bryant Lowry on drums. Catch them on tour June 4th at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA and June 13th at The Rebel Lounge in Phoenix, AZ. Watch their premier film for ROXY below:

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Guitar prodigy, Marcus Machado, plays The Platinum Room at Guitar Center Union Square

Marcus Machado performs at Guitar Center Manhattan. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Since meeting Marcus Machado last summer, the young guitar prodigy had already stamped his mark on the indie music scene by way of him winning Rolling Stone Magazine's "New Young Gun Contest" in 2014. His extraordinary talent, music influences and his relentless ambition for perfection has left a permanent impression that has reminded us of the days when funk, soul, blues and hip-hop flourished together.

Since the November 2015 release of his debut EP, "29," Marcus has taken the stage at some of New York's premier music venues including The Blue Note, SOBs and Subrosa. As a mastered curator of his sound, the prodigious guitarist has recorded and performed with industry greats such as Sandra St. Victor, Marcus Miller, V Jeffrey Smith, Pharoahe Monch and DJ Spinna - to name a few. When we attended Marcus's guitar clinic at Guitar Center Manhattan last week his performance, and on-stage persona, was indicative of how far he has come as an artist. His music has forged a path for the next generation of guitarists seeking to adopt their own sound; while also, inheriting those who had come before them. 

Marcus Machado plays The Platinum Room. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Along with contemporary greats, Daru Jones, Les Lemon and Paul Bloom Marcus Machado rocked the Platinum Room at Guitar Center performing original songs from his debut EP and renditions of iconic rock legends such as Prince, Eddie Hazel, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and of course, Jimi Hendrix .With features by V Jeffrey Smith and JS Williams, Marcus took charge with performances of Jimi Hendrix's "Power With Soul" and a masterful tribute to the one and only J Dilla.

Marcus's powerful rock-inspired anthem "Rockout" and soulful hip-hop jam "New Thangz" drew customers from across Guitar Center with sounds of jazz, funk, soul and rock piercing through the glass doors of the Platinum Room. Inspiring guitarists, fans and industry professionals looked on as Marcus and his 5 piece band lit up the room indicative of the vintage Gibson, Fender and Duisenberg guitars that hung above the stage. 

Marcus Machado and The Soulfolk Experience. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

His feature on The Soulfolk Experience's "Chariot" illustrated a unique contrast and depth that Marcus applies to his music. The soft, bluesy and americana influences offered audiences with further appreciation for how versatile these incredible musicians that took the stage were and how important it was for many aspiring musicians to add to their craft. Marcus topped the evening with titanic finale to the late Phife Dawg with covers of A Tribe Called Quest and other early 90's hip-hop beats that defined not only an era, but an entire genre of music.

Marcus Machado is not only a prodigy, but a representation of a movement that is re-defining how we, as music lovers, view live performances and instrumentation. Marcus's sound is a resurrection of the time where the guitar ruled the stage of rock, funk and soul. As an emerging independent artist, Marcus is solidifying his place amongst his contemporaries and carrying the legacies of the iconic rock stars that came before. Truly the prodigy is ready for the next stage in his young promising career. 

Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

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