Concert Review: Dennis Lloyd Is International R&B At Rough Trade
Admittedly, I did not know much about Dennis Lloyd going into his Rough Trade Show. Hence, when I saw the Sold Out sign, my curiosity spiked. Who was this “alternative R&B” star that had people driving across the tri-state just to see him play his trumpet, seduce in Spanish, cover Britney Spears, and sing to being unstoppable? Then, Dennis Lloyd appeared like a living legend I had yet to meet, but the crowd knew as well as their own names.
Hailing from Tel Aviv, Lloyd marveled at how it had been 10 years since he was that high-school kid who wanted to be an “international star”, but was told he was “too different” to be it. They were right in one thing; Lloyd is different. Not many can whip out a “trumpet suite” mid-song to the mass cheer of a Brooklyn crowd, nor can an artist stop a song and say, “You mother-f**kers are going to sing” and completely appear charming. Yet, that is Dennis Lloyd. For a man that approaches the stage like a god, you still approach him like a buddy.
Dennis Lloyd – Leftovers (Official Video)
Dennis Lloyd is a soulful concoction humility and gravitas. He knows he is cool or, at least, gives a “cool guy” vibe as he thanks his fans and band with a gratitude that confounds him. It is as if he knows his talent is blessed by our notice, and by how people sang songs like, “Playa (Say That)” and “Nevermind”, it is clear that Lloyd has snatched mass attention. He balances his tracks with melodic, instrumental riffs that prove his exemplar capacity as a guitarist/ trumpeter. Then, he sings catchy hooks that sound-byte positivity. With a voice that spruces tranquility, you are surprised how much you take in his optimism and resilience.
Dennis Lloyd – Playa (Say That) [Official Video]
Honestly, when I heard Dennis Lloyd was “alternative R&B”, I was expecting an electro-land of synths and depressing verses, which I welcome with love. Yet, I was happily surprised to see that Lloyd “alts” R&B by giving it a prodding, pensive sound that includes adding a folkish edge to verses and guitar arrangements. For instance, he performed one of the best Britney Spears covers I have ever seen; turning “Hit Me Baby One More Time” into a song about feeling desperate to figure out what you need to do to get your lover to love you more. Yet, that is the power of Dennis Lloyd; he takes mass appeal and further it in thoughtfulness. For More Information On Dennis Lloyd Click Here.
Dennis Lloyd – Nevermind (Alright)
