The timing was perfect. The previous work week was long and taxing, the weekend was coming to an end, but I wasn't quite ready to let Monday's reality set in. So, I found myself eagerly waiting to let Los Angeles-based neo-soul rockers, Rhye to delay the inevitable a little longer, and they did much more than that.
I've always wanted to see Rhye perform live ever since I listened to their extremely underrated debut LP, Woman. I was confident they would sound good, but would lead-singer Milosh be able to sound as good live as he does at home? It only took me less than minute for me to have my answer. For me, Milosh's voice is one of my faves in the industry. It's just so damn smooth, and that smoothness doesn't get lost within their live performance (something that happens all too often).
The theatre was dimly lit all night. Rhye's set began around just before 9 p.m. The weather was cool outside, just perfect for some downtempo neo-soul tunes to make you all warm inside. Milosh stood center stage in between two members on each side, then a drummer set up in the back of the stage. In tota,l six musicians filled the stage, and I can't emphasize the term musicians enough. They are musicians in every sense of the word. All members were donning black attire, and it just fit the mood perfectly. Milosh was really the only member that was mobile, which allowed him to sway and dance as he sung the shit of their songs.
The emphasis here was to relax. Relax and soak in the music these six musicians were showcasing. Milosh rocked a half grin throughout the performance while hopping around the stage and even assisted in adding percussion to several songs. At one time there was a violin, cello, bass guitar, organ, trombone and a drum setup all on stage at once. It may have felt a little cluttered, but It didn't seem to phase them, often appearing more relaxed than the crowd. Their satisfaction in performing in front of us really showed.
Milosh spoke in between songs, and his voice is so soft and mellow. You even heard someone yell out to speak up, and he joked back with the crowd in acting like he was whispering on purpose. I just think it's in his nature to be laid back. I will say I didn't have any issues hearing his voice while he sang. His vocals were clear and in perfect pitch. Milosh's voice mirrors to what you would hear on their CD or MP3. It's that good. The backing band was just superb all night. There was a lot sound being produced all at once, and never did it sound off beat or rushed. As each song passed and they got to "Open," my favorite track of the night, it was more clear than ever, I was witnessing a modern day Sade, but with male vocals. A bold statement, yes, but one that I think you'll find to be more accurate as you dive deeper into their songs.
Rhye's set clocked in around 75 minutes, but unfortunately ended with no encore. They did share two new songs off their forthcoming record, one being "Wasted," a song they've been sharing at various live shows for the last few years.
The show was only half full for attendance, and that is my only gripe for the evening. I really wish more people had ventured out to witness this supremely talented group. I think most walks of life would've found joy in hearing a jazz infused, soulful, downtempo, relaxing set of music. Hell, I think we all could certainly use it. Maybe the lack of crowd was due to it being on Sunday night or maybe because Rhye hasn't quite reached the audiences they should. The lucky souls that did make it out to the show were seen holding the one they came with, being affectionate and in love. Rhye's music will bring out the best in you.
As far as venues go, State Theatre is truly one of my favorites in Tampa Bay, and a place that I have many fond memories of. I've seen a lot of shows over the years there, and they always sound good to my ears, tonight was no exception. I can't thank the State Theatre enough for hosting such a talented band and exposing the Bay Area to such beautiful tunes. Come back anytime, Rhye.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BMzHTKKgBydThis article appears in Nov 10-17, 2016.