Review: mk.gee @ Commodore Ballroom – Sep 2 2024

Posted on September 2, 2024 by

On a cool September evening, mk.gee brought his eclectic mix of indie rock and electronic grooves to the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver. The venue, known for its intimate atmosphere and stellar acoustics, was the perfect setting for a night filled with innovative sounds and vibrant energy.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd’s anticipation grew, mk.gee took the stage, opening with “Are You Looking Up.” The track set a contemplative yet rhythmic tone, immediately drawing the audience into his world. The mix of his smooth vocals and intricate guitar work created a dreamy atmosphere, laying a foundation for what would be a dynamically engaging set.

The show flowed seamlessly into “You Got It,” where mk.gee showcased his knack for blending catchy hooks with layered instrumentals. The audience couldn’t help but groove along to the infectious beat, and the vibe only grew as he moved into “Lonely Fight.” This track, with its introspective lyrics and slightly darker undertones, added depth to the set and showcased mk.gee’s range as a songwriter.

A highlight of the night came with “Dream Police,” a track that perfectly encapsulates mk.gee’s genre-blending style. The funky bassline and electronic elements got the crowd moving, creating an electric atmosphere that resonated throughout the venue. “Candy” followed, adding a more laid-back vibe with its lo-fi aesthetics and smooth rhythms.

Midway through the set, mk.gee performed “Dimeback/cz,” a song that beautifully melded ambient sounds with a driving beat, creating a hypnotic soundscape that captivated the audience. As the show continued, “I Want” and “New Low” kept the momentum going with their infectious melodies and powerful performances.

The set reached an emotional peak with “Rylee & I,” a heartfelt ballad that saw mk.gee strip back his sound to focus on raw, emotional storytelling. This quieter moment was a stark contrast to the pulsating energy of earlier tracks, providing a poignant pause in the otherwise upbeat show.

As the night drew to a close, mk.gee brought the energy back up with “Little Bit More,” “DNM,” and “Breakthespell,” each song building on the last and driving the audience into a frenzy of dancing and singing along. He closed the main set as he began, with a reprise of “Are You Looking Up,” bringing the evening full circle and leaving the audience in a reflective mood.

The encore, “Alesis,” was a fitting end to the night, combining everything mk.gee does best—melodic hooks, intricate production, and a groove that just won’t quit. As the final notes echoed through the Commodore Ballroom, it was clear that mk.gee had not only delivered a fantastic performance but had also created a shared experience that left everyone in attendance buzzing long after the show ended.

Overall, mk.gee’s performance was a masterclass in blending genres and creating an immersive concert experience. The setlist was thoughtfully crafted, showcasing his evolution as an artist while keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. Vancouver was lucky to have him, and those in attendance won’t soon forget this memorable night.