By Chris Doxtator
Photo by Katie Langley
Nic Jay is an important fixture in the Denver music community. Not only has he been a part of one of Denver’s greatest indie bands (Petals of Spain), but he’s played in other bands (SYCDVK) and hosts a number open mic nights that can result in surprise performances--like when Leon Bridges showed up for an intimate three-song set. It’s clear Nic Jay loves making music, and he loves making it in Denver. This became even more clear during this special set of songs.
Nic’s love for music comes through in his vocal performances. Choosing the perfect style for this room, Nic showcases his range and ability. He can shift from intimate storytelling to soulful bellowing at the drop of his Crocodile Dundee-esque hat, and his falsetto tones juxtaposed with his conversational respites bring listeners into the intimate moments that are shattered with his powerful turns of the vocal volume knob. If there is any word to describe what Nic is doing, it’s soulbaring (I didn’t say real word). We can hear it all.