Sharon Slays

Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings almost burned down the TLA Friday night with one of the hottest shows I've seen there all year.

The sold-out crowd was hyped. Fresh off of a fantastic set by openers The Budos Band, the audience was abuzz with anticipation. The Dap Kings, who know how to work a crowd, came out and warmed up the audience without vocals before introducing Jones. When she came on stage in her all her 5'1" glory, wearing a sleeveless shimmery silver shift, the entire place erupted.

With choice cuts from 100 Days, 100 Nights and Naturally, SJ and TDK bounced back and forth between songs that made us groove and songs that showcased the amazing power of her voice. The band was so tight and her voice was so powerful, not a person in the house was unaffected.

Jones was extremely at ease on stage and did her best to involve the audience. At a number of points Jones would invite would-be dancers on stage to dance with her while she sang.

In what can only be described as a lucky case of participatory journalism, this Phillyist ended up on stage with SJ and TDK, shakin' her thang and having a great time doing so. All I can say is, the sound of those horns and her voice only inches from your ears is sweeter than you can imagine.

The band announced added dates to its current tour, but Philadelphia isn't one of the stops. Here's hoping they come back, and soon.

Image credit: Flickr user revolute