Show Review by Sheila Kieran, Photos by Anna Boylan

Indie singer-songwriter ok, tyler is an artist on the move. He’s been on the road this year promoting his latest album “PROFESSIONAL PRETENDER”, including his performance at the  December 6th School Night event at the Mercury Lounge in New York City.

 

Tyler opened his last show of the year with a toast, and among the whoops of joy and solo cups launched straight into his hit “Jenny, u were my first”. He and his band’s energy filled the small venue easily, infusing the crowd with excitement and mustering up the feel of a rocking house party despite the fact that it was a rainy Tuesday night. 

 

Perhaps the most striking part of the experience was Tyler’s stage presence-his crowdwork was genuine and endearing, making the audience feel comfortable to sing along even in a space where every face can be seen and every sound heard. It’s clear that his talent shines through in a live setting, as his music gains new colors on the stage in a way that can’t be captured in the studio. He’s not afraid to experiment vocally and see what sticks, adding riffs and impressive vocal variations that make his work even more vibrant. He also demonstrated an impressive range of sounds, from a simmering and grungy cover of Katy Perry’s “I Kissed A Girl” to his sweet love song, “Courtney”. 

 

It was enjoyable to see how much fun he was having. The set flew by quickly, and the crowd didn’t want it to end. It seemed Tyler felt the same, as he exclaimed incredulously, “I can’t believe it’s over!” to the drummer before one of the last songs. He wrapped up with the banger “baby, do u like me?” and had everyone clapping along with their cups held in their mouths by their teeth.

 

The show was satisfying in the way that it always is to see someone revel and excel in what they do best, and the crowd could sense that ok, tyler was fully in his element. It’s clear that he has the makings of a true performer and that there are certainly larger venues and crowds in his future.

 

You can listen to “PROFESSIONAL PRETENDER”, as well as the rest of ok, tyler’s sizzling discography, here.