J-Mo On The Beat Releases “Love Letter” at KJ’s Hideaway

Last updated on July 5th, 2023 at 03:22 pm

The love letter opened with a poem titled “A Start You Are,” which describes the journey of love we all can take. And it earned plenty of audience love for J-Mo On The Beat (J-Mo), a 50’s rock riffer who held his album release party at KJ’s Hideaway Friday night.

J-Mo On The Beat at KJ's Hideaway photo by Travis Meier — J-Mo On The Beat at KJ’s Hideaway by Travis Meier

Accompanied by the J-Lighters, J-Mo took us on a love journey through his songs, leading to heartbreak at first, then quickly flipping to wedding bells.

Before I can get to the rest of the story, the openers, Kinda Fonda Wonda, were first on stage. Carrying the same vibe as J-Mo and groovier rock from the 60’s, they got the crowd warmed up with high-powered raspy vocals.

Kinda Fonda Wanda at KJ's Hideaway photo by Travis Meier — Kinda Fonda Wanda at KJ’s Hideaway by Travis Meier

J-Mo and the J-Lighters hopped on stage and built the vibe further. Jumping into his new tracks, such as “I Wanna Call On You” and “Teardrops Everyday,” he shared his failed attempts at meeting a girl at a club for that early heartbreak.

J-Mo passionately acted out his heartbreak on stage, taking a shot of liquor to try and kill the pain before rebounding with another letter to a new girl.

He let this new girl know he loves her through the song “Dear You,” then wrapped up the whole story with the song “I Do,” in which they get married to end the record.

J-Mo brings a lot to the table as a performer. His energy, emotion, and vocals make for an ear-appealing and entraining show. He balances plenty of originals with covers from the 50’s rock genre, even adding some Ray Charles. He had audience heads bobbing and hands clapping while churning through the songs.

Personally, it’s been a while since I have sat down and listened to a 50’s style concert. The easy listening and intimacy of KJ’s Hideaway made for a delightful and entertaining night. It has made me appreciate music that has been overlooked in recent decades.

The fact J-Mo has chosen that style in the current day is exciting and refreshing. The bands I saw last night demonstrate that the genre is alive and well, even if it’s often overlooked. I hope J-Mo and the J-Lighters can write a new love letter for this style.