Mikky Ekko: Effortlessly Audible

 by Sydney PortigalMikky Ekko is very, very talented. This, although an obvious fact, is the most important and defining characteristic about Ekko. In the world of modern music, the different ranges and dimensions of talent have become far and wide,  from the festival DJ’s to small indie folk bands to kids making music in their rooms. Do I love a good house beat and techno sequence as much as the next person? Of course I do. Could I get down to Justin Bieber just as easily as I could cry to Adele’s new single? I’m already doing that. But what I love and have always appreciated about music is the pure, raw talent that some people possess. (Maybe its because I’m as tone deaf as, well, a very tone deaf person, and have never been able to experience people smiling at my singing.)Ekko has that pure, raw talent of a goose bump-worthy voice. His voice is sultry, smooth, and a pleasure to listen to. Not many artists can convey their emotions through both their words and their physical voice. Through every song he sings he is somehow able to convey his every emotion to the audience. His ballads are mellifluous and well written; not a word is wasted.From “Pull Me Down,” a love song dedicated to his wife, to his most well known ones, “Kids” and “Smile,” happy melodies about moving onto a better future, Ekko’s southern roots and mournful, hypnotic sound shine through all of his songs.He also happens to be blessed with the charisma of a rock star and the graciousness of the Queen of England. Although it looked very easy and fun, I’m sure jumping around in a leather jacket and pleated pants while still reaching the highest of the high notes took some determination and skill. And the fact that the set was so well put together and smooth for his first headlining tour is very impressive. The overall concert experience he gave reminded me of why live music is truly the best way to experience music.Keep an eye out for Mikky Ekko. I guarantee that we are going to be seeing a lot more of him very soon.Photos courtesy of Sidney Portigal