Trinidadian soca pop group KES—Kees Dieffenthaller (lead vocals), Hans Dieffenthaller (drums), Jon Dieffenthaller (guitar), and Riad Boochoon (bass)—livened up Mercury Lounge with a island-style show that sought to bring beachy peace to the chaotic city streets. Soulful vocals surfed over rocky reggae riffs as KES’ set swung from ebullient favorites like “If This Ain’t Love” and “Wotless” to some slower tracks threaded with passion and promise.
The band’s infectious energy had the crowd belting out the lyrics and dancing with abandon. Irresistible in his ubiquitous red beanie, dredded frontman Kees cast a sexy spell as he swaggered across the stage and serenaded in his Trini drawl. He had the girls swooning with “Make You My Religion” and showcased his versatile voice with a soaring new ballad titled “Balloons.” Upbeat entertainers with a carefree flair, KES put on a liberating show with a tenderhearted message: “Keep it light. Keep it positive. Keep it love.”
Article: Heather McAdams
