On Monday night, Nick Hakim played The Sinclair with opening band Jake Sherman. Kicking off the show, Jake Sherman warmed up the crowd with a wholesome set, filled with sweet and bubbly songs, including one about being old in “We All Do,” and love songs like “Not the Same.” The warm sound of his organ and the steady beat of the drum tracks were inviting and fun, creating a vibe similar to that of Darwin Deez. Throughout the show, Jake was primarily reserved, but showed flashes of charisma such as when he pointed out his new colorful jacket, and when he swore at someone off stage for mentioning that his time was almost up. Jake closed his set with a pair of songs featuring his childhood friend and fellow Boston Latin School alumni, Kyle Miles, who played both a vocoder and bass.

After a short intermission, Nick Hakim and his band set the mood for the rest of the night with a low and spacious ambience, dominated by Nick’s smooth, powerful, and emotional voice. Once he took to the stage, the rest of the band followed suit, walking on to the heavy boom of kick drums. The crowd swayed and sang along to hits like “I Don’t Know” and “Cuffed,” as the band produced deep pocket beats and poured soulful guitar into the packed venue. Their sound was lush and full, with hint of grit and funk. Despite having been born and raised in Washington D.C., the show was almost like a reunion for Nick. The crowd buzzed as he talked about his time in Boston, where he attended the Berklee College of Music, formed his band, and spent time working with youths at a Boys & Girls Club.

As a result of this personal connection, a strong set list, and exceptional playing, Nick Hakim and his band delivered a memorable performance, leaving many hoping the band would return to Boston again soon.

See below for photos from the show: