marQue (Red Devil Lounge, 12 January 2006)

marQue performed for a packed house at the Red Devil Lounge. Equipped with an acoustic guitar and supported by drummer Big Pocket Matt Lucich and bassist Peter Canton, marQue belted out a great performance with songs from his first album, Conflicting Memories, as well as new ones from his upcoming sophomore album, Raw Soul Folk.

Paired with an unconventional, clever way of playing riffs off his guitar and a hauntingly strong voice that reminds me of Bob Marley, marQue has somehow successfully mixed folk, reggae tones, rock, and soul into one nice batch of goodness and great music.

While standing alongside a very captivated audience, I nodded my head to the beat as marQue sang songs ranging from smooth and soulful to radical and rebellion-like. Holding everyone's attention with his raw voice and enlightening lyrics, marQue would take breaks in between his set to actually talk to the audience about some of the influences for his music. One of his inspirations - his mom - was actually in the crowd, dancing along to the music. Besides being a great singer and performer, marQue seemed like a truly nice, down to earth type of guy.

The highlight of the night was when he sang, "The System". Accompanied by hard hitting drums and smooth bass licks, marQue questioned our heroin-like addiction with material things and dependence on the status quo. Not scared to express his feelings, this rebel soul child is sure to garner the attention of many. Leaving the show, I felt a true sense of rejuvenation. I will definitely keep my eyes open for more shows and performances by marQue. My suggestion is catch this guy before stardom and bigger venues hit him.

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