SMINO - Red Rocks

This set was something I didn't know what to expect. Smino is a rapper hailing from St. Louis, Missouri and has been a collaborator of artists like JID, Saba, Denzel Curry, and more. His music would be considered more in the pop-rap / alternative R&B category, with several hit songs + features in the mainstream.

His most recent full-length release, 'Luv 4 Rent,' was a significant rap project in 2022, being in many year-end lists for best rap albums of the year. His evolution as an artist was more transparent in this album than in any of his prior releases. It seems like Smino has come into his element, with a creative output that makes him stand in his unique location in the rap industry.

Smino came out with a full band, dressed in one of my favourite performing outfits I've seen all year. His fit was a pink fur vest with pink pants layered on top of a frilly purple long-sleeve shirt and futuristic shades. On top of the clothes were several uniquely designed necklaces, rings, and a boot representing his St Louis origins.

Given his releases in the past, I thought Smino would have more of a relaxed vibe on stage flowing through his past hits. In reality, his performance was high-energy, immediately evoking a massive crowd response with dancing and chanting with the live audience.

The band as well helped with this high-energy performance, backing Smino with the same engaging vibrancy. During the performance, his mannerisms and demeanour denote his easygoing nature towards his fans and the music genre. Smino is the type of artist who radiates positive vibes and is just someone you want to be around.

I love going into sets, not knowing what to expect, and being positively impressed by a performing artist. Smino is absolutely someone I would see again and a beacon of positivity in the music industry.