Singer/songwriter/producer Devonte Hynes could possibly spread himself too thin considering his involvement with Test Icicles, Lightspeed Champion, and a number of solo artists. However, the performance of his own project Blood Orange at the El Rey proved that there is plenty of him and his rhythm n’ grooves to go around.  On the Blood Orange albums, Hynes performs most of the instruments, but the show last night was very much a hip-hop-tinged group effort. Collaborating with a full band, saxophonist, and guest rapper, Blood Orange pulsated through the venue filled with loyal and adoring fans who flocked to do little else but dance. Hynes, too, was out to boogie with his snappy moves, jerky guitar solos and fused styles of new-wave funk and eccentric 80′s-infused beats. Single “Chamakay” was an evening highlight – focused and taut.  Blood Orange propelled a semi-afrobeat slash disco fusion and the El Rey thumped with a sense of self-discoverable community. Hynes, who was very appreciative of his fans, closed the night with “Time Will Tell.” And with a warning of no encore, the crowd soaked in the last of a performance much greater than the sum of its parts. Blood Orange was both vulnerable and confident with their display of art, pop, and soul making the fans want to follow him back to NYC for just one more eclectic jam.

All writing and photos by me for LA RECORD