#xnvix

Lehigh's own XNVIX took the stage at the Orpheum in Tampa late Monday night as part of the Showcase Tour. This nationwide tour hosted by DJ Jam gives local artists a platform on which to perform and a chance to win a life-altering opportunity: an all-expenses-paid 30+ show tour including travel and hotel provided by The Showcase Tour! The Sophisticated Bastards rolled up to the Orpheum and immediately let people know who they were and why they came, and nothing was going to stop them. When the venue staff tried to spring a surprise $15 cover cost per head on all 6 members that wasn’t previously disclosed in their contract, the Bastards had a “Sophisticated” conversation with security and finessed their way in for free.

XNVIX was called on stage around 11:00 PM, and brought what was left of a dwindling crowd back to life by opening with “Keep It Movin’”. The pure hype that they bring on stage make every show feel like a party, and it’s impossible not to have fun while they’re performing. During their set Monday night VI and Stract jumped off stage to dance with the audience, and Mvrch Vibes hopped on the drums and kept the beat for “Lighters”. XNVIX has the vibe of a new-age Wu-Tang Clan, with each member having their own unique style and personality but sharing a common passion for hip-hip and mutual appreciation for each other’s talents. They radiate positivity and love, two things our world could use a lot more of these days.  Their sound is the perfect combination of old-school and new-school hip-hop; combined with their hippie image they could conceive a new genre called “Hippie-Hop”. We’ll work on that… the point is that they’re talented, unique, and they indisputably have a bright future in music.

Unfortunately, saving the best for last wasn’t the best play in this case. Doors opened at 7 PM and by 11 PM the audience consisted mainly of other artists who were hoping for their own victory. Because the winner of the Showcase Tour is so heavily reliant upon the audience’s votes, the Sophisticated Bastards didn’t move on to the next tier of shows. Nonetheless they left more positive and motivated than ever, even congratulating the winner and exchanging IGs in the parking lot after the show. They took an L on Monday, but they are determined that 2018 is going to be their year. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for more from the XNVIX!