LOS ANGELES, CA- I remember that February 7th, 2013 quite vividly. In the dimly lite, intimate setting of the Del Monte Speakeasy in Venice, California, I got to experience Hiatus Kaiyote live for the first time. They launched into an electrifying set that featured songs from their debut album, “Tawk Tomahawk,” as well as a few new tracks. Lead singer Nai Palm’s powerful vocals filled the room, while the rest of the band – Perrin Moss on drums, Paul Bender on bass, and Simon Mavin on keys – provided a tight and dynamic backing that showcased their musical prowess. I’ve been hooked ever since.
When I found out that Hiatus Kaiyote were scheduled to perform at Coachella, I kept an eye out for possible shows they would be headlining in between weekends, and to my delight a show had been scheduled at The Novo. There would be no way I would be missing the engagement.
Opening for Hiatus Kaiyote was a DJ set by Leone Michels, the leader of the musical project El Michels Affair. The project was formed in the early 2000s and has become known for their unique blend of instrumental soul, funk, and jazz music. While I would have loved to see the band perform, I was certainly entertained by wax Leone spun to get the crowd worked up.
I could tell that Leon had a deeeeeeep knowledge of soul, funk, and hip-hop music. The way he incorporated rare and obscure tracks into his sets, and actually use REAL vinyl records, give him high marks in my book. Overall, Leon Michels’ DJ set was a testament to his deep love and knowledge of music, and his ability to connect with audiences through the power of soulful, groove-based music.
By the time, Hiatus Kaiyote took the stage, the audience was ready to have a musical spell cast upon them. At this point, I could go through each song that they performed (the setlist is below) or write about the trials and tribulations that band had to endure the past few years, or wax poetic about the numerous co-signs they’ve received from some big names in the industry, but that’s all be said and done before. Rather… how about a something creative?…
Musical Alchemy: The Magic of Hiatus Kaiyote Live
Nai Palm’s voice is like a spell,
Her words weaving a magical tale to tell,
Perrin Moss’ drums beat like a heart,
Paul Bender’s bass sets the foundation for art.
Simon Mavin’s keys light up the room,
Together they create a sound that will consume,
The energy builds with each passing note,
Until the music becomes a magical coat.
In concert, Hiatus Kaiyote’s magic grows,
As they blend genres like colors on a rose,
Their creativity knows no bounds,
As they take us to musical heights unbound.
Nai Palm’s stage presence is electric,
As Perrin’s rhythms become kinetic,
Paul’s bass lines move through the air,
While Simon’s keys take us everywhere.
Together they create a sonic dream,
A world where nothing is as it seems,
As we move and sway to their beat,
We feel their magic in every feat.
Hiatus Kaiyote’s music is a wonder,
Their concerts a place to be and ponder,
Where we’re swept away on a musical ride,
With Nai, Perrin, Paul, and Simon by our side.
I just really adore this band. It’s always a pleasure to be put under their spell.
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LIVE CLIPS
