Marc E. Bassy and his velvet voice graced the stage at The Van Buren on Thursday as the Nothing In This World Tour hit Phoenix. He was joined by another polished singer- John K- for a night of silky smooth bangers.
John K was charm personified from the moment he walked out to an adoring crowd. Backed by a live guitarist and drummer, he ran through a setlist that melded R&B, pop and even a slight country influence that had longtime fans singing along and new fans mesmerized. He constantly interacted with the audience, throwing pink sunglasses to the room during- what else- “Cheap Sunglasses” and cracking jokes onstage. Anyone not already familiar with John K’s music left that room a fan after such an incredible set.
Marc E. Bassy has been playing Phoenix for many years, moving up the ranks of our plethora of stages and finally landing at The Van Buren. With more room to play, he set up giant mirrors behind what looked like a recording studio for himself and multi-instrumentalist Pete Jonas. The set focused on his latest album, one that’s really resonated with listeners since its release and one that got huge reactions from the crowd all night.
Bassy switched between instruments throughout the set, backed by Jonas’ sweet guitar solos and vocals. He treated the rapt audience to new song “Levels”, along with a snippet of fan favorite “Dirty Water” before launching into “Morning” from the piano. Bassy never missed a beat or a note, his voice weaving its way through the room on the bouncy “Bowie” and ethereal “Nothing In This World”. He made sure to come back out for another pair of older songs for the day ones- “You and Me” and “Subway Car” rounded out a perfect evening with our Bay Area fave.
Check out all the photos from the show!
Story and photos by Olivia Khiel
