Concert Review: Janelle Monae

Janelle Monae
Smithe's Olde Bar
Atlanta, GA
3/21/08

One of my favorite aspects of living in Atlanta is the access to the dope underground/developing local music scene. There is a show I have interest in checking out literally every week. So much so that I have constantly put off checking out Janelle Monae. For those not up on Ms. Monae, her music sounds like the love child of Anita Baker and Andre 3000. She was signed to Big Boi's Purple Ribbon label at one point, but last year through her own imprint, Wonderland Arts Society, released the critically acclaimed, Metropolis EP.




Well Friday I got to check out Monae live and in person, as she performed tracks from her EP. In perfect voice, Janelle ran through a set that included covers of Anita's Sweet Love and Roberta Flack's Killing Me Softly. Dressed in her uniform of black and white, slacks and tuxedo shirt respectively, Janelle exuded crazy energy on the electronica fused "Violet Stars Happy Hunting" and "Many Moons." She previewed an 80's prince inspired number from her upcoming June release (through her new deal with Bad Boy Records) and showcased her incredible vocals on "Smile." Overall Janelle Monae gave a great show and solidified my stance as a supporter.

-Mike