Drawing from his self-titled sophomore album released in March last year, Masego revealed a show steeped in the intoxicating blend of sweat, sex, lust, and undeniable allure. It felt like New York city at night, a Chicago block party at dusk, a cassette played through the speakers of a Mercedes convertible; his performance at Alexandra Palace was a journey through the nostalgic eras and emotions of Masego in a single show.
The night flowed under Masego's charismatic direction. “Jonathan Curry speaks drums,” he declared at one point, highlighting his palpable love affair between him and his band. Watching the stage, there was an infectious energy, a camaraderie that spilled over into the crowd, as if we were privy to their private jam session.
The setlist journeyed through his discography, where he breathed new life into tracks like "Silver Tongue Devil" and "Mystery Lady." With each remix and reinterpretation, Masego showcased his exceptional versatility, from the smooth transitions of "Two Sides (I'm So Gemini)" to the contemplative ambiance of "Veg Out." Yet, it was in the live remixes and the seamless flow from one song to the next that Masego truly shined, blurring the lines between tracks, genres, and even eras, with a nod to the past and his foot firmly in the future.
The saxophone, under Masego's control, was a voice in its own right, captivating the audience as he lost himself in the music. His voice and demeanor carried a seductive quality that, coupled with his saxophone play, created an atmosphere charged with emotion and sex appeal.
The stage, set against a backdrop of hyperwave retro visuals—from Jamaican and South African flags to close-ups of lips and legs against 8-bit urban skylines—made for a shared, intimate experience. He sang to and with, danced to and with, even inviting an audience member on stage with him to perform. From the playful crowdplay of a lusty rendition of Marco Polo to his playful commentary on the essence of R&B ("It has to make you want to take your clothes off. That’s R&B, you’ll need a sexy guitar"), Masego had the ability to enchant, command, and seduce the room. His movements, charm, and charisma, coupled with his freestyling, and on-the-spot beat-making abilities showcased his ease on stage.
Masego's performance underscored his role as a visionary, and as he continues his tour across Europe we’re left to anticipate what Masego will surprise us with next.
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