Akoustics- Culture Vibrations

Written by Heather Jones

Akoustics: Culture Vibrations

Noda (North Davidson) is Charlotte’s Historic Arts District is now attracting the attention of both old and new residents of Charlotte as the place to go for a bit of culture, good food, nostalgia and of course fun.

That is exactly what I experienced when attending Akoustics: Cultured Vibrations on June 30,2012. Excitement and a fun time was in the air from the moment Mike Clayton (@SignorSuccess) stepped on stage. He took you back to the fellowship associated with good church. Everyone got up and mingled a little meeting new people. It was perfect to set the tone of knowing you were about to have a great time.

Multiple artist performed Jazz, Poetry, and Neo Soul…You could tell that there was true talent around because some artist did a little of both. But the way in which each artist brought something different to the stage was amazing, motivating and inspiring.

There were a few artist that I truly enjoyed: Jared (@nexbestjared), Lauren Ariel (@BeautiFROLauren), Quill (@quillhiphop), and Jamaal Cowan (@mallchi)

I loved how Jared was so transparent with his performance. He did a warm-up requested audience participation and then cover of John Mayer’s “Daughter”, but the way in which he sang and added to the song even John Mayer would have been pleased. This young man has a wonderful voice that can soothe your worst heartbreak and he makes you feel like he feels and understands the music.

Lauren’s voice was phenomenal! I loved the kind of raspy sound that worked perfectly with her cover of Jill Scott “Getting’ in the Way”. Her voice and performance was so well received that we all wanted an encore. And she delivered. She felt the music and let the music and words flow without effort.

Quill performed a couple tracks and did some spoken word. Of course I enjoyed the performance considering he performed “Still Dreamin’”, which he is working on a video for as we speak. But if you haven’t heard Quill do spoken word then you are missing out on a treat. The sound of his voice, with the intense passion of his heart, and the impactful words to his lines….I had to pause just thinking about it.

And last but not least Jamaal did poetry that I truly enjoyed. His poetry kept you on the edge of your seat waiting to hear the next word, next line. You couldn’t guess what he was going to say and that kept the audience’s attention.

DJ Dexter Dynamite (@TPClikeYAK) and a live band created the music for the evening. Both there made for a nice mix and gave variety. Then following the event DJ Dex and Quill hosted an enjoyable and fun after party right there in Wine Up…It was like a 2 for 1 and well worth the cost!

Check out the website www.akousticsculture.com and DON’T miss the next one…