This last Tuesday night, the wonderfully talented and diverse, Mayer Hawthorne, wrapped up his two-night, “Mayer Hawthorne Revue” at the Teragram Ballroom. Having never seen Mayer Hawthorne perform live, I knew I was in for a good night, but I was unprepared for how blown away I was. The Mayer Hawthorne Revue featured three of his projects, each one very different from the others, yet very cohesive.
Starting the night was his 80s electro-pop project, Jaded Incorporated. Very much rooted in the new wave, 80s electro, and even a bit of post punk, Mayer and partner in crime, 14KT, took to their synths and bashed out a very accessible set, especially with their incredible cover of A Flock of Seagulls hit, “I Ran”.
After a quick change of suits, it was time for my favorite Hawthorne project, Tuxedo. Tuxedo comprises of Hawthorne and DJ/Producer, Jake One. The two of them bonded a few years back when they had exchanged mix tapes and discovered that they had a mutual love for 70s and 80s boogie funk and disco. Backed by a full band, Hawthorne and Jake One absolutely destroyed it, turning the Teragram into a sea of dancing bodies.
After another suit change, Hawthorne closed out the evening with his ‘solo’ project, Mayer Hawthorne and The County. This band has more of a classic R&B sound with roots in everything from Curtis Mayfield to Smokey Robinson. Like every other thing that Mayer Hawthorne is involved in, the attention to detail is astounding; from the vocal harmonies and arrangements, to the synthesizer sounds and guitar tones, Hawthorne nails each era and musical style.
Words & Photography: Ceethreedom
Jaded Incorporated
Mayer Hawthorne and The County
Mayer Hawthorne and The County
Tuxedo
Tuxedo
Hangout Fest soft opens with Joey Bada$$, Mayer Hawthorne and The Word
Photos: An Evening with Mayer Hawthorne at Sonos Studio
