There have been more than a handful of times I’ve thought to myself “I wonder what happened to so and so” since the pandemic has reared its ugliness. This has especially rung true for Seramic, also known as Marcus Foster. When I was introduced to his music he was UK based, focusing more on the folk genre. Right before the pandemic shut everything down, however, he had transitioned into his new moniker, along with a new sound: soulful, funky, eclectic. His new name was ringing all the bells and opening all the doors… that is until lockdown. But he hasn’t been idle at all. Having recently relocated to NYC permanently, Seramic seems to be settling in nicely, with a plethora of new songs to showcase as he embarks on a 4 month long residency at Brooklyn mainstay and very appropriately named, C’mon Everybody. I jumped at the chance to see what Foster had to offer since I saw him last.
Touting a slew of special guests for each date, to kick things off, we were treated to the dreamlike tones of Elysse, a multi-dimensional artist who effortlessly straddles the line between jazz and soul music. While I was wholly unfamiliar with her music, she drew me in along with many crowd goers who seemed to hang on every word, mouthing along passionately with the lyrics. I also have to give a huge nod to the band accompanying Elysse. Every musician on that stage that participated in helping craft the sounds were super onpoint all night. Elysse had it right when she mentioned the fog in the room made it feel like a hazy dream.
Elysse
Elysse
Elysse
Elysse
A short changeover later, Seramic hit the stage and loosened everyone up with a few unexpected “woo’s.” I was instantly reminded why Seramic shows are always such an experience. Charisma is 100% his middle name when he’s onstage and his enthusiasm for being in a room full of people performing the music he loves just brings out the best in everyone within earshot.
Nestled at the keyboard, he and his band ran through a few numbers and really settled into the atmosphere of the space. The crowd was respectful and engaged with everything being offered, so when the time came to “don’t be shy and dance,” the people eagerly obliged. Now, I’ve been to my fair share of concerts big and small, and I can’t recall in recent times the entire audience throwing caution to the wind and dancing like nobody’s watching. When he moved on from his keys to his guitar and kicked it into a new gear, I wouldn’t even particularly say that Seramic’s music is of the usual dancing kind, but it was the spirit of the music and the passion in which it was being delivered, you just couldn’t help but move your body.
Seramic
Seramic
Seramic
Seramic
Seramic is just one of those performers where you will never know what to expect, and in a sea of artists that seem to rely on formulaic songwriting, experiencing an artist like him is such a breath of fresh air. His reemergence on the NY music scene couldn’t have come at a better time. Having just released his single called Ride or Die this past June, he’s bursting at the seams to share everything he’s been working on… and I haven’t even begun to mention all of his other art.
Seramic
Seramic
Seramic
Seramic
As the show came to a close, it certainly felt like the time flew by… and we all wanted more. Thankfully there’s 3 more chances to see Seramic weave his magic at C’mon Everybody. I’ve already got my tickets for all of the shows. Hope to see you all there. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch me doing a two-step off to the side, where hopefully no one can see me. Great room, great crowd, great vibes and really great music.
Article/Images: Lesley Keller
