Khamari, Gabriel Jacoby at Center Stage

CRITIC’S PICK:
Thurs., Nov. 6
Khamari, Gabriel Jacoby, Center Stage — Stellar male R&B is hard to come by in today's music climate, and that's why every single fan of soul and R&B should have Khamari on their radar. The Dorchester, Massachusetts native has been gaining notoriety over the last handful of years with breakthrough projects like his 2020 EP "Eldorado" and his 2023 full-length debut "A Brief Nirvana." With a voice reminiscent of pre-"Channel Orange" Frank Ocean and an enthralling, introspective sound that bridges the gap between Daniel Caesar and early ‘70s Stevie Wonder, Khamari has carefully constructed a sticky, melancholy world for listeners to tuck into. As a result, it only makes sense that his new LP, "To Dry a Tear" builds upon that premise with more soul, more yearning, and more anguish. A few months after its release, Khamari is touring in support of the album, and the fact that his To Dry a Tear is hitting Center Stage for a sold-out night should hint at his potential career trajectory. You're early to the Khamari party, so tap in while ticket resale prices are still low. — joshua robinson