Mac Ayres: Tiny Desk Concert

Credit: Photo: Zayrha Rodriguez/NPRIt's so easy to fall in love with the music of Mac Ayres.His hands-on approach to R&B is such a refreshing departure from the mainstream.

Behind the Desk, Ayres brings a stunning band — including longtime collaborator, bassist and music director Declan Miers — and a selection of tunes from across his catalog.This set is profoundly satisfying, tastefully arranged and always in the pocket.Opening with "Sunny & 62," Ayres builds lush harmonies with vocalists Brandon Lee Harris and Jess Schnieder before keyboardist Daniel Abraham Jr.

cues the unmistakable motif of "Calvin's Joint." Ayres debuts "Please Come Home," an unreleased song co-written with Tiny Desk alum Carrtoons, leaning into '70s soul as guitarist Josh Porter creates a cinematic backdrop."Where U Goin' Tonight" brings a subtle disco vibe and lets Ayres flex his stunning vocal range; the grooves, anchored by drummer Brian Richburg, are completely undeniable."This song changed my life," he tells the crowd before the set ends.

Nearly a decade ago, "Easy" turned so many of us onto his music; it's also how Ayres ended his Tiny Desk (home) concert.And now the crowd joins in a sing-along, bringing everything full circle.SET LISTMUSICIANSTINY DESK TEAM...