Live music review: Mick Jenkins and TOBi delivered stellar hip hop shows at Come and Take It Live

Around 9 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, Hip Hop artist Mick Jenkins took the stage at Come and Take It Live. The Chicago native opened his set with what is possibly the strongest opening track of any album, in any genre, of 2023.

Earlier that evening, Toronto native, TOBi, put on quite a show. For those familiar with TOBi’s work, there was eager anticipation prior to the set from his fans.  Others in attendance who may not have seen the performer before were beyond pleased with the opening act. Jenkins and TOBi hit Austin mid-tour with several sold-out dates both stateside and in Europe which will complete the approximately six week-long, Thank You for Waiting tour.

TOBi led the crowd through his ten-song setlist seamlessly with the stage presence expected of a headliner. TOBi’s most recent album, PANIC was released in October.

TOBi’s setlist:    

1. Someone I Knew
2. City Blues
3. Too Hot
4. Flowers
5. Don’t Touch
6. Move
7. Time Out
8. Hoodwinked
9. Flatline
10. Made Me Everything

When the first notes of hit song, “Michelin Star” kicked in, Mick Jenkins appeared on stage and the crowd reaction was frenzied. Before  kicking off the lyrics, the emcee greeted all in attendance at the venue, mistakenly, as Dallas.  He immediately recognized his error and owned it with a grin, while correcting himself and promising to make it up with a stellar performance.  He did just that, impressing the Come and Take It Live audience with deft style.

What stood out most about Jenkins’ live set is his versatility as an artist and a performer.  Traversing hip-hop styles and sub-genres seems so natural to him that his transition from song to song is unforced and matter-of-course. Mick Jenkins’ set was performed from memory as the artist had no setlist. Mick Jenkins’ latest album, The Patience was released in August of 2023.

Come and Take It Live has been a magnet for top-tier talent for a good minute. While largely focused on hard rock and metal bookings the East Austin venue has offered a wider variety of acts beyond thrashing guitars. Jenkins and TOBi’s show is a prime example. Nestled just off the corner of East Riverside and Royal Crest Dr, the venue—once known as the nightclub Kaos, among other things—brings in performers of various genres and styles; even hosting pro wrestling events.  It has become one of Austin’s most entertaining and off-beat venues.

Jenkins and TOBi went beyond the high bar set for those in attendance on February 3.  It’s definitely worth checking either act out whenever presented with the opportunity.

Please follow and like us: