Tech N9ne at Velvet Jones

Deep, mysterious, and undeniably irresistible, Tech N9ne gave an intensely fierce performance at his highly anticipated sold-out show at Velvet Jones Friday night. After nearly 20 years in the industry as an independent artist, Tech N9ne has become one of the most focused rappers in the biz, making for a night of ferocious beats, standout lines, and genuine hip-hop history making. Together with Krizz Kaliko, Kutt Calhoun, and Big Scoob, Tech’s group’s high-energy deliveries and coordinated dance moves ultimately helped create an untouchably flawless performance that left fans ecstatic.

The show also gave off a rather endearing vibe, as the place was packed with genuine Tech N9ne fans who were able to sing along to each song and dance in near-perfect sync with the group’s incredibly animated routine. Kaliko showed his versatility as both a rapper and singer by belting out bluesy tunes, then spitting hot lyrics over tracks like “Misunderstood.” Elsewhere, Calhoun took the spotlight with his throaty, melodic rap style in “Bunk Rock Bitch,” and Big Scoob seized the masses with “Salue.”

Still, it was Tech N9ne himself who ultimately stole the show, giving off the unrefined, uncut energy of a breakout artist with the finesse of a musician with years of experience. Showcasing a number of favorites, as well as new tracks, the group executed an unbeatable hit list that included “Bout Ta Bubble,” “Caribou Lou,” and “Leave Me Alone.” And, unsurprisingly, girls got all kinds of naked, flashing and throwing undergarments on stage, when “Areola” blasted through the speakers.

Known for his impeccable deliveries and intricate rhyme schemes, Tech N9ne never ceases to amaze with his ability to switch the subject or tenor of his songs in an instant without ever sounding strained or unauthentic. Thanks in part to a group of dynamic performers and fresh, catchy beats, Tech N9ne had the audience euphoric by the end of the show, leaving fans calling for one received encore, yet still yearning for more.