Concert Review: Kota The Friend Is Truly Your Friend At SOB’s
Kota The Friend strolled on and through the SOB’s stage like one would a park; this is his domain and it is open to the public. His cool demeanor is the epitome of a “suave,” but not in terms of flirtation as much as friendliness. You simply like the guy because he reminds you of every amiable, talented kid you knew on the block that everyone said, “He’s going to go far!” Frankly, that Attribute is to his benefit because who does not want a friend to succeed.
Kota lives up to his “The Friend” image, in part, because he aims for the friendliness of charisma: not the flirtation. There are those who believe charm is this mindless, hypnotic technique that makes people believe in all you say. Yet, the most charming thing to do is listen. From “Philly Jawn” to “Sydney,” Kota proves he is listening to life; observing the daily interactions men and women have between each other and themselves. He feeds lyrics to the audience as if he is serving caviar to their ears , and, in a way, he is: each track has golden nuggets of daily wisdom.
As a rapper, Kota is filled with noble details. His raps roll like floating thoughts trying to find concrete stability, which is reflective of his personality. While some artists approach a concert like a “feeling” session, Kota The Friend sees it as a “thought forum;” where he pushes his ideas and smiles at the audience to see if, as human beings, they feel the same. Hence, tracks like, “Chicago Diner,” “Smile,” “Sunny Day,” and “Daylight” worm through the negativity to reach your higher thoughts. Add on, again, the breeziness of Kota’s presence, and it is no wonder he is rising. We all want someone that makes feeling better, thinking more, and connecting with others appear easy.
From Chance The Rapper to Noname and Topaz Jones, so many rising to the top have infused a jazziness to Hip Hop that makes it swirl and swoon like a John Coltrane record. Rhythmically, Kota also goes for the brighter; never letting a downbeat enter his space. Yet, such a choice is reflective in both his verses and virtue as a person. For More Information on Kota The Friend Click Here.
