LOS ANGELES, CA- Louis Cole is an American drummer, producer, and singer-songwriter known for his unique musical style that blends elements of funk, jazz, electronic, and pop music. He is also one half of the musical duo Knower, alongside Genevieve Artadi which was formed in 2010 (exciting news about Knower below). They gained popularity through their energetic live performances and unique fusion of genres, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, and electronic music. The duo released several albums, including “Louis Cole and Genevieve Artadi Presents: Knower” (2011), “Think Thoughts” (2016), and “Life” (2020).
In addition to his work with Knower, Louis Cole has released solo music, showcasing his talents as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He has released solo albums such as “Time” (2018) and “Live Sesh and Xtra Songs” (2019), which further display his eclectic musical style and catchy melodies.
Louis Cole’s music is characterized by its infectious grooves, experimental production techniques, and witty lyrics. His compositions often feature a combination of live instrumentation and electronic elements, creating a distinct sound that appeals to a wide range of listeners. Throughout his career, Louis Cole has collaborated with various musicians and artists, including Thundercat, Jacob Collier, and Flying Lotus, among others. He has also gained a significant following on YouTube, where he regularly uploads music videos, drumming tutorials, and behind-the-scenes content.
Louis Cole’s musical style continues to evolve, incorporating new influences and pushing the boundaries of genre conventions. All of that genius comes out during his live performances, so when news of his performance at the Fonda with a Big Band was announced, I circled that date on my calendar, and may have even drew some stars and happy faces in the small cube to further memorialize my excitement.
Like Louis, Genevieve Artadi is and innovative and unique artist who pushed boundaries and incorporates experimental elements into her music. Her music blends elements of jazz, funk, R&B, and electronic music, resulting in a genre-defying sound. Artadi’s vocals is deceptively versatile, ranging from soulful and melodic to wild and unpredictable. Her compositions are filled with intricate rhythmic patterns, unconventional song structures, and a playful use of synthesizers and other electronic elements. Artadi’s music has a distinct modern edge and often explores themes of personal experiences, relationships, and self-reflection.
Like her music, Genevieve’s performance was a high-energy affair. Genre-defying. She created a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience, and backed by a large band, commanded the stage with her powerful and versatile vocals.
I loved the fusion in her set. A melding of genres. A buffet of sounds. So diverse at different points of the performance, but she brings it all together to create a unique and captivating sonic experience. Her charismatic and playful demeanor added an element of liveliness to the show. So much fun. Truly unforgettable.
I get a kick every time I see Louis Cole perform. If you already know who he is, you know about his notable presence on social media platforms, particularly YouTube and Instagram. He utilizes these platforms to share his music, connect with his audience, and showcase his humorous side. When you can seamlessly meld that humor with his musical genius, it make the whole experience doubly entertaining and engaging for we the viewers.
His lyrics are frequently light-hearted and whimsical, incorporating clever wordplay, witty observations, and humorous anecdotes. This adds an enjoyable and relatable element to his songs, making them both musically and lyrically entertaining.
All of that was on display at the iconic Fonda Theatre. Joined by a sensational big band, Cole showcased his exceptional talents, delivering a concert experience that was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
From the moment the curtain rose, the stage was a vibrant playground of musical energy. As Louis Cole emerged, a wave of applause erupted, setting the tone for an extraordinary night. He addressed the crowd, and, ironically, stood behind a syth and played his iconic “F it Up” to start the night. F it up he did.
When the big band took their positions, the musical weight of the stage expanded 100 fold, and we all knew our minds were about to be blown. The big band, a perfect accompaniment to Cole’s musical prowess, joined in, and the venue erupted with an explosion of sound.
Throughout the evening, Cole’s musicality and stage presence shone brightly. He flawlessly navigated between his roles as a drummer, vocalist, and bandleader, effortlessly transitioning from one instrument to another. The big band complemented his every move, their synchronized melodies and harmonies creating a rich tapestry of sound that enveloped the venue.
The setlist was a carefully curated mix of original compositions and reimagined classics, each performed with a unique twist. From infectious funk-infused grooves to jazz-inspired ballads, every song was a testament to Cole’s versatility and creativity as a musician. The audience was enthralled, their enthusiasm growing with each passing moment.
Beyond the musical brilliance, Louis Cole’s infectious charisma and humor added an extra layer of enjoyment to the concert. Between songs, he engaged the audience with witty banter, sharing anecdotes and inviting laughter. His down-to-earth demeanor created an intimate connection, making the concert feel like an intimate gathering of friends.
As the evening drew to a close, the audience was left in awe of the sheer talent and artistry displayed on stage. Louis Cole and the big band had delivered a performance that transcended expectations, leaving an indelible impression on the hearts and minds of all fortunate enough to witness it.
The concert at the Fonda Theatre was a testament to Louis Cole’s status as a musical genius. With his extraordinary drumming, captivating vocals, and magnetic stage presence, he continues to push the boundaries of contemporary music. Together with the incredible big band, he delivered a night of pure magic, solidifying his position as a true icon of our time.
Listen to this pic.twitter.com/K9h3x1kaAu
— KNOWER (@KNOWER_music) May 25, 2023
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