LOS ANGELES, CA- Anticipation crackled through the air at the Greek Theatre as Stephen Lee Bruner, the enigmatic artist better known as Thundercat, returned to his hometown on his “In Yo Girl’s City” Tour.
Renowned for his seamless fusion of genres, including jazz, funk, R&B, and electronica, Thundercat stands out not only for his remarkable musical talent but also for his irreverent approach to songwriting. From forgetting where you left your phone to the most mundane of daily experiences, he’s unafraid to craft lighthearted tunes that often touch on the quirkiest aspects of life, all while skillfully wielding his bass guitar.
While his style might not be everyone’s cup of tea, Thundercat’s unique injection of fun and levity into the jazz scene has garnered him a devoted following. After more than a year since his last performance in his hometown – even longer if you consider his solo tours – it was evident that this show at the Greek Theatre was going to be something extraordinary.
Walking out under a large inflatable cat to Mac Miller’s “Inside Outside,” Thundercat dazzled in a striking red, pink, and yellow bodysuit, accentuated by black overalls and perfectly complemented by his trusty Ibanez Custom Shop six-string bass.
The hour and a half set breezed by – commencing with the mesmerizing notes of “Lost in Space” and weaving through fan favorites like “Black Gold” and “Candlelight.” Throughout the evening, the Los Angeles native’s virtuosity and groove were on full display. As he seamlessly transitioned between intricate basslines and his signature falsetto vocals, the entire crowd, myself included, was spellbound. It became abundantly clear that Thundercat’s extraordinary talent and unique musical fusion have rightfully earned him the success he enjoys today.
As this was his hometown concert, it was no surprise that Burner brought out all the stops. One of the standout moments of the show was “Black Qualls,” during which the singer brought out Steve Lacy and Donald Glover, or Childish Gambino. The crowd absolutely ate the performance up, singing almost every word and moving to the beat.
What’s more, Thundercat delighted the audience by reuniting with his former band, Suicidal Tendencies, for renditions of “You Can’t Bring Me Down” and “Institutionalized.” These unexpected collaborations injected a surge of energy into the relatively laid-back crowd, sparking cheers and newfound excitement throughout the venue.
Capping off the unforgettable night, Thundercat brought out the lead singer of Tame Impala, Kevin Parker, for a mesmerizing closing performance. The dynamic duo serenaded the crowd with their latest single, “No More Lies,” leaving the audience in awe as they bathed in the music’s ethereal glow.
It was evident that this hometown show held great significance for Thundercat. Rather than solely performing his own songs, he created a dynamic exchange where each guest, like Steve Lacy and Donald Glover, not only participated in Thundercat’s set but also showcased their own hits, such as “Shadows” and “Apocalypse Dreams.” This concert wasn’t just a solo act; it was a beautiful and heartfelt dialogue between Thundercat and his talented friends.
The Greek Theatre’s stage bore witness to a truly epic night that will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of those who attended. Thundercat’s musical prowess, his ability to create a sense of unity and shared joy among his fans, and his willingness to share the spotlight with his fellow artists all contributed to an extraordinary evening. The “In Yo Girl’s City” Tour’s Los Angeles stop wasn’t just a concert; it was a heartfelt celebration of music, friendship, and the vibrant, eclectic spirit of the city. It’s a night that will remain legendary for years to come.
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