Rising vocal trio EleveN2wenty2’s genre-fluid approach to songcraft is finally falling into place
As a group, they love to get ready for a show with prayer and meditation and, according to Adgers, by “drinking a little somethin’ somethin’.”
EleveN2wenty2 // Photo courtesy of JaNay Aldgers
Local vocal trio, EleveN2wenty2, gave an incredible performance at recordBar March 10, 2024. Described as “A Night for the Grown and Sexy Folks,” the smooth and soulful voices of the trio definitely took us on a journey throughout the evening.
A blend of original songs and covers excited the audience with both highly recognizable tunes and soulful originals, giving the crowd a taste of what the group is all about. Joined by fellow local artist Tiff Sings and the Band, even my incredibly uncoordinated self could not help but get into the groove.
EleveN2wenty2 is composed of members KAi Manning (soprano), JaNay Adgers (alto), and Darius Sheppard (tenor). Each member has been classically trained vocally, either through individual instruction or in pursuit of a degree.
Though the musicians have not yet officially labeled themselves within a genre, they are noticeably inspired by the strong and soulful sounds of gospel music, and the lyricism of rhythm and blues. Each of their voices are incredibly powerful and captivating. They are self-described as an experimental vocal trio that is heavily inspired by the sounds of R&B, funk, neo-soul, jazz, and rock.
The three met and began singing together through their church about ten years ago. The trio was officially formed on November 22, 2018. Their name exists as a creative homage to their official date of formation.
The chemistry among them is immediately apparent upon meeting them, and that chemistry carries flawlessly into their performance. Not only do they perform and rehearse together, but they are best friends and take care of one another when in need. They all can recall a time that their fellow band mates were there for them when they needed it most.
Their writing process begins with a bit of lyrics from Adgers and/or Manning, and is later refined collectively. Manning says that when writing together, they really try to create the mood that they want their song to elicit within their environment. When writing a more sensual song such as their latest release, “Reunited,” they may dim the lights and pour some wine. Their music is currently available for listening on Spotify, YouTube, Pandora, and Apple Music.
As a group, they love to get ready for a show with prayer and meditation and, according to Adgers, by “drinking a little somethin’ somethin’.”
When asked what his favorite part is about performing, Sheppard answers with a cackle and says that he loves being part of a collective that creates such a safe space. They claim to always have each other’s back, both professionally and personally.
Manning says that the history they share with one another and their chemistry is one of her favorite parts about performing with the group. She says that they know each other’s voice and personality so well that they have no difficulty when a situation may arise where they need to improvise on stage.
Similarly, Adgers loves getting the chance to see all of their hard work come to fruition on stage and loved getting the chance to share that with everyone March 10 at recordBar.
I was lucky enough to get to capture photos for the musical trio which can be viewed below:
