Tinlicker Showcased Their Mastery of Performing Live in Ohio

Tinlicker brought their mood-shifting sound to Columbus’ Newport Music Hall, the musical mecca of the Midwest, for an incredible night out.

As fans on the West Coast continue to descend from the musical high of Tinlicker‘s performances at Portola Festival and CRSSD Festival Fall, eager fans in the Midwest welcomed the Dutch duo to Newport Music Hall in Columbus, OH. From delivering a beautifully curated soundtrack overlooking the Pacific at the Ocean View stage to a wide-ranging live performance for a diverse crowd in a college town, Tinlicker demonstrated the “je ne sais quoi” of a live DJ set.

Originally built as a movie theater, the century-old Newport Music Hall has been a concert venue for over 50 years. Although it’s the longest continuously running rock club in the United States, the venue’s capacity of 1,700 was perfect for an evening of warm, spine-tingling progressive house and electronica up close and personal.

The modest exterior camouflaged a spacious interior that allowed for easy movement. Every angle provided an unobstructed view of the stage, a welcome advantage for someone of shorter stature. And the acoustics were exceptional.

Felix Raphael kicked off the show with soothing electronica, blending live drumming with electronic elements and adding his soulful vocals to taste. The audience gave their undivided attention as he performed familiar tracks and previewed unreleased material. The performance was a fitting appetizer for the night ahead.

Photo Credit: Gyll Carter

After Felix Raphael played his closing track to rousing applause and made his exit, the stage crew raised the venue lights to prepare the theater for Tinlicker.

Fans eagerly awaited Micha Heyboer and Jordi van Achthoven’s arrival, meandering at the bar or holding steadfast in their optimal viewing position. Then, the lights faded lazily, settling behind Tinlicker to cast a memorable silhouette.

Ascending frequencies began creeping through the speaker stacks as the crowd erupted in a dull, expectant roar. After a brief, comforting silence, we heard the first beat of the drum machine. The headliner’s subsequent performance was nothing short of extraordinary.

Live DJ sets often require a complex array of music equipment, and the technical demands may sometimes hinder an artist’s ability to connect deeply with the audience. But, the pair confidently navigated their numerous MIDI keyboards and drum machines with complete control of a crowd that never lost its energy.

Photo Credit: Gyll Carter

Tinlicker shared laughter as they sneakily dropped their mega-remix of Sian Evans’, “Hide U” and generated excitement towards the next drop.

Fans craved the extended builds and savored the intricate melodic phrases that leave you weightless. Unexpectedly, Felix Raphael returned to the stage to perform for the collaborative masterpiece “Where Did I Go.” His seamless integration into the venue’s energy and cadence created a memorable highlight of the evening.

Tinlicker’s performance at Newport Music Hall was a testament to their exceptional ability to stay connected with audiences while utilizing intricate musical gear. The duo exuded poise and confidence that epitomized their passion to perform. Their charming disposition reminds us that live sets should be equally enjoyable for both the audience and the artist.

Follow Tinlicker:

Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | SoundCloud | YouTube | TikTok