Nesta (Reggae/Southern Soul)

“ Besides the 'Good Vibes' tattoo sported by drummer, Ben Bennis, Nesta doesn’t portray your stereotypical red-yellow-green mystique. There is no doubt the Richmond based group has some technical reggae influences but their music speaks to a broader audience. Nick Wade’s glassy vocals coupled with the groups energetic funk create a 'Good Vibes' atmosphere without the Rastafarian overload. Lucky for us, we got to spend the day with them leading up to their gig with RDGLDGRN at Shaka’s Live in VA Beach.

The day's agenda included a quick rehearsal, packing and unpacking gear, skating Nor- folk’s Northside park, and sipping some PBRs in the parking lot. The group's uniformly passionate personalities are as strong on stage as off, and their sound promotes this persona with intention. As far as the show goes, we have never seen an opening act respectfully deny an encore.......... until Nesta. Let's be clear: the opening act had was so loved that they received an encore, and so gracious that they declined it in deference to the subsequent band.

In the midst of all the trap lords and rap gods, it is fulfilling to witness a young group contagiously embody empathy and playfulness. We understand that it may be, on occasion, ignorantly exciting to chant lyrics of fat stacks and bad bitches, but it is enriching to dive into the alternative. Check out their new album on Spotify or Apple Music and keep the good vibes rolling. Pleasure. ”

- The Cove