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April 2, 2009 @ The Basement — Mikky Ekko Mikky Ekko Delivers Stunning Performance, Channels Morrison and Buckley Thursday night (April 2, 2009) Nashville-based Mikky Ekko delivered a brilliant 40-minute set that deserves comparison to two of rock 'n' roll's best: Jim Morrison and Jeff Buckley. Ekko's vocals are easily comparable to the late Jeff Buckley and he has as much vocal control and range as Rufus Wainright. Take those vocal gifts and combine them with the stage-presence, lyrical poetry, and emotional intensity of The Doors' Jim Morrison and you've got what will no doubt be the next superstar to emerge from Nashville's over-saturated indie music scene—Mikky Ekko. The songs are all driven and controlled by Ekko's vocals. He moves effortlessly from a jazzy Chet Baker vibe to the haunting whispers reminiscent of The The's Matt Johnson to the explosive intensity of Jim Morrison and Trent Reznor. All of these comparisons can and should be made; however, Mikky Ekko is a complete original. He is quite simply the most interesting and brilliant new artist this writer has seen since randomly catching a very young Kings of Leon open for Josh Rouse at 12th & Porter many years ago. Ekko's band is an organic mix of straight-ahead guitars, bass, keys, and drums. The music serves to compliment and assist Ekko, who drives the songs with his vocal control and emotional intensity. He takes center-stage and controls the room like some kind of Pentecostal preacher--it's hypnotizing stuff, nothing short of brilliant. Ekko just released an EP that showcases his vocal abilities but doesn't capture the emotional intensity of the live show. Go see him live and see for yourself. Ekko is opening for Paper Route for their CD release at the Exit/In on May 2. This show will sell out fast so get your tickets early, as this much anticipated show promises to be one of this year's best. —Vincent Wynne |
