FAC After Hours: Ahzay + Retro/Ricole Tiny Desk

The After Hours Tiny Desk is a unique musical experience that showcases talented local artists and creates a memorable evening of music.

Every year, the Frederick Arts Council hosts a weekend of music and arts performances called After Hours. OUT40 was invited to curate its inaugural night of hip hop featuring Ahzay and Retro/Ricole. Watch clips from the show!

The Tiny Desk Concert is an innovative concept that combines the electricity of live instrumentation with the power of music. The event aims to recreate the ambiance of a live concert in an acoustic landscape, creating an interactive platform for music lovers to come together and enjoy a night of exceptional performances.

The event features a diverse lineup of talented artists, each bringing their unique style and sound to the stage. Pairing soulful acoustic melodies to energetic hip hop, the Tiny Desk catered to a wide range of musical preferences. Patrons were treated to an evening of exceptional performances, leaving them wanting more.

Ahzay (pronounced AH-zay) is an entertainer from Frederick, MD. He is an actor, artist and host. Ahzay formerly known as, MC Colors, has released two albums. Gold Sodium debuted in April 2017 which is a self-based, story formatted reflection of success, achievement and accomplishment through one’s tears. Ahzay’s biggest influences are said to be Rick Ross, Wale and Kendrick Lamar. As Ahzay, he released two albums, his most recent album entitled Gold Sodium in April 2017 which is a self-based, story formatted reflection of success, achievement and accomplishment through one’s tears.

His newest project, At Some Point You Mature, released the night before Tiny Desk, will be performed with R&B singer Calvin Little, Jr. on the FAC stage.

[READ: westEND Music Review: GS2]

[WATCH: Calvin Little vs. Eddy Michaels Verzuz]

One of the highlights of the FAC After Hours Out40 Tiny Desk Concert is the opportunity for viewers to engage with the artists and fellow music enthusiasts.

Retro/Ricole appeared first to the listening public as a member of Center Of Attention (later changing their name to Razor Eaterz) in 2005 releasing mixtapes & LPs until the groups amicable split in 2009. It’s when in 2010’s critically acclaimed Passion Park (LP) w/ the single “Another Eagle” released by the artist that his presence was felt. A subsequent amount of mixtapes and EP’s followed until his sophomore (LP) release Mr. Sunrise in 2015. Also that year, Ricole formed the alternative rock & hip-hop band daMOOD. Releasing LPs, EPs and singles showing the world his ability to explore all sub genres of hip hop and music.

[READ: A DECADE of Hip-Hop by Retro/Ricole]

Joined by daMOOD on stage, Retro brought down the house as he performed his nostalgic catalogue.