PICK: Vibe Riot

Bursting with sophisticated musicianship and intelligent lyricism, Vibe Riot makes a scene with its bluesy funk. Fronted by Brooklyn-born and Virginia-raised J. “Jaewar” King, the group’s percussive music awakens the mind and soul, bringing diverse genres together with socially conscious messaging that draws comparisons to Kendrick Lamar and Anderson .Paak. Friday 8/13, $10, 6pm. Rivanna […]

ARTS Pick: Vibe Fest at IX

Vibe Riot’s frontman Jaewar has a desire to be the “Bob Marley of hip-hop.” And as the head of a local collective whose music is alternately politically relevant and shamelessly feel-good, he’s well on his way. Vibe Fest seems like the next logical step for a group that seeks to “give context and color to […]

Vibe Riot wants to know what’s on your mind

Jay “Jaewar” King listened to a lot of reggae while growing up in Virginia Beach. His Jamaican-born father always had the stereo on, with good vibes floating through the speakers and into the home. But it was hip-hop that took hold of him. Captivated by the imagery of the lyrics and by artists like LL […]