Phony Ppl is still a band on the verge though they are — at this point — six albums deep into their career. That doesn't seem to phase them, though. Instead, the fellas keep cranking out their version of feel-good music that blends R&B, hip-hop, jazz and soul with a focus on the current generation. Recently, they brought their verve to the NPR offices for their first-ever Tiny Desk Concert Series performance.
The group went with a setlist that blended their past two albums, 2015's Yesterday's Tomorrow and last year's mō'zā-ik, starting with "Compromise." The song allowed the Phony Ppl to swing between disciplined song structure and freewheeling breaks that exemplified their musical approach. From there, the band and special guest Braxton Cook delved into mō'zā-ik's "Cookie Crumble" and "One Man Band." Each performance was pretty fun, thanks especially to vocalist Elbee Thrie's fun-loving energy that shined through even during the more downbeat feel of "Cookie Crumble." They then ended on perhaps their best-known track, "Why iii Love The Moon." By this time, the audience was in the palm of their hand and the guys took advantage, offering smiles and playful banter before and after the song as the moment came to a close.
Phony Ppl might not be a household name yet, but the group showed that they definitely have the power to stay if they so choose with or without the acceptance of the mainstream. Check out the fellas working their charm during their Tiny Desk set below.
