The lights dim around the stage of House Of Blues, Orlando, the first stop on Thievery Corporation‘s Florida tour. Find yourself a seat, maybe one of the two couches on stage and get comfortable as founder Robert Garza cues up the beat and vocalist LouLou Ghelichkhani begins an alluring hum…the fairy tale has begun.
Garza and Eric Hamilton met in the 90’s and began the group Thievery Corporation and 2016 marks the group’s milestone 20 year anniversary. The duo found common ground in their love for the Bossa Nova music style, a samba/jazz style from Brazil. Their first album, “Sounds from Thievery Hi-Fi” was a tribute to their love for bossa nova. The duo is now on their seventh studio album entitled ‘Suadade’ released on their own music label: ESL Music.
This ensemble had an explosive presence on stage, each member bringing their own individual style and musical talent, creating a harmony that shook the venue. During their set at HOB Orlando, they featured three hip-hop/reggae artist including the iconic Mr. Lif. One particular element of Thievery Corporation’s show that stood out most to me was certainly their percussion section. The cohesive transition from cadence, marching band, and reggae style really demonstrated the talent of this section. However, that’s not the only instrument or section that was fluid; sitar, bass guitar, electric guitar as well as acoustic, piano, even the chimes prove that this ensemble has taken the time to perfect not only their instruments but more importantly each members melodic flow. All of these incorporations have allowed them to create a rhythmic and ambient style unique to the group.
I could not have asked for a better Sunday night set. I got to hear some of my favorite songs by Thievery, Lebanese Blonde, Vampires and Take my Soul. Garza and Hilton have truly found their place in music, bring together beautiful like minded musicians creating something that brings so many people smiles. It is easy to see how they have accomplished much in their careers as producers, musicians, political activists and moguls. We should all look forward to what is next for them.
Relive a few of the moments from the Orlando show at House of Blues courtesy of DubEra.com, as well as the Jacksonville set opened by TAUK at Mavericks Live:
House of Blues – photo by Maxx McInerney of DubEra
House of Blues – photo by Maxx McInerney of DubEra
JACKSONVILLE:
photos and review by Chris Rivera unless listed
