For me, this story starts last year when we figured out a way to swing a trip to Hawaii. On big vacations, I have a habit of assembling playlists of the ideal tunes to help set the vibe. This time around, my friend Joe, threw out a few suggestions from a talented Hawaiian native: Kbong. Good news for me.
Kbong is Kevin Bong, a talented songwriter who happens to also be Stick Figure’s keyboard player. On stage with Stick, he’s a constant positive force behind his keyboards. On his own, he’s a damn good live performer who commands the stage with his presence. He’s a duide who constantly gushes positivity. Most importantly, he creates absolutely addictive kick ass, reggae-infused music.
He and his bandmates recently barnstormed through Florida on their Making Friends tour, with fellow artists Tropidelic and Mike Pinto. Sweet line-up right there… Kbong’s band featured the talented Johnny Cosmic. They’re a strong pairing who feed off of each other well and complement each other onstage. We caught them just before their tour ended, at the quaint (and packed) Cafe Davinci in Deland where they ruled the night. If you are into intricate guitar work and uber-talented musicianship, this might not be your thing. But, if you love feel good music with an addictive vibe…
The six piece act included a fiddle player, and featured both Kbong and Johnny Cosmic on lead guitar. The two also traded off lead vocals throughout the set, but it was Kbong constantly adorned with his effusive smile who ruled the stage. He had the crowd following him like hopeful congregants – the rock ‘n reggae minister preaching love and hope, and his flock was committed…
The set started with the perfect opening song. “Good News” is the first single off of the excellent new album Smile With the World. It’s a song about looking past all of the shit in the world and finding the positivity instead. By the time they hit the last chorus the entire venue believed the message, as we sang along, setting the mood for the next hour. “Love, love. love…”
Musical highlights from the set included “Livin Easy,” “Open My Eyes” and the magical tune that first introduced me to Kbong, “Middle of the Ocean.” They closed the night with a raucous Bob Marley cover “Bend Down Low” – a fitting end to a powerful evening.
You need to keep your eye out in case they make it to your area in the future. Definitely a band worth seeing and a message worth hearing during these times.
We briefly met up with Kbong after the show. He was friendly, humble and gracious. His voice nearly fried, he still made time to chat with us and other fans, that brilliant smile still always present.
I got a felling we’ll be alright
As sure as the sun will shine
We’ll make it to the other side
All together now we choose – Good news… coming our way…“Good News” off of the album Smile With the World
Rock On!
BC
