Concert Review: Anthony David

S.O.B.’s, New York, NYJuly 23, 2008It was a night that true lovers of R&B and Soul can attest to, as Anthony David performed for New York City. The vibes that came across the crowd as they listened to the poignant feel-good tracks songwriter turned artist David delivered from his latest release Acey Duecy (Soulbird/Universal Republic), were definitely felt throughout the semi-packed venue.  Newcomer Vincent “V. Rich” Richardson warmed up the scattered crowd, performing several original songs for the audience. However, it was pretty clear that they were awaiting David, whose album is a compilation of songs from his debut 3 Chords & The Truth and second album The Red Clay Chronicles (both released under Brash Music).   As soon as David hit the stage, everyone from the bar and those seated eating dinner all flocked to center stage. He opened introducing himself and his album singing over Estelle’s “American Boy,” and then transitioned into tracks from his third release. Most of the audience has followed him from his very beginnings, while others only heard his name from penning hits for India.Arie. Mellow cuts like “Something About You,” “Stop Playin’” and the very relevant “Krooked Kop” got the crowd of mostly women warmed up. His very easy-going demeanor along with his gray jeans, black and white plaid shirt, and nose ring helped his devoted fans relax and settle into the performance backed by a live band. When “Cheatin Man” and “Cold Turkey” were performed, everyone in the crowd sung each and every word to the song carried by the heavy sounds of the electric and bass guitars. He then performed “Part Of My Life,” which he co-wrote for India.Arie’s Acoustic Soul album.   He switched things up a bit by performing Guy’s “I Like” and Mary J. Blige’s “My Life”- followed by his own “Lady,” “Kinfolk” and “Smoke One.” The ladies in the crowd rocked out to the up tempo “GA Peach,” and then the band immediately left the stage leaving everyone a little dumbfounded. Fortunately, the band returned to give the show a proper close with the Georgia native’s first single, “Words.”  Anthony David is not necessarily new to the music scene because of his songwriting repertoire. Although many in the audience were not familiar with him as an artist, he certainly left an impression that has stuck and will prove to continue the ongoing appreciation of good R&B and Soul music.Check out Anthony David’s#### single “Words” featuring India.Arie