Far From Here, Right at Home: John Splithoff at The Racket NYC
John Splithoff brought his unmistakable groove and soul back to the city that helped shape him, headlining The Racket NYC for the tenth stop on his 25-date tour. With rising artist Evan McIntosh opening the night, the stage was set for a night of sonic magic in the heart of the Big Apple on Friday, April 11th.
With his new album Far From Here (2025) as the centerpiece, Splithoff offered a rich, genre-blurring performance that seamlessly fused soul, jazz, and pop into a soundscape both polished and heartfelt. Written largely on hotel desks between cities, the album chronicles the shifting tides of relationships, friendships, and personal evolution. The album is an intimate reflection on life’s transitions amid the backdrop of constant movement.
A proud Chicago native now living in Los Angeles, Splithoff reflected on the whirlwind of cross-country moves, life on the road, and unforgettable moments opening for Andy Grammer, Teddy Swims, and performing at Lollapalooza. But his love for New York City – his home for ten years – still runs deep. He joked to the crowd that he came back just to apologize for moving west, and true to form, the audience rewarded the jab with raucous laughter.
Splithoff’s stage presence is a masterclass in ease and connection. With velvety vocals that melt into moments of raspy edge, he moved through the set with heartfelt sincerity and a band that matched him note for note. Songs like “Value” from his 2021 album All In shimmered with ethereal soul, while the emotional weight of his newer material such as “Kyoto Snow,” “Marooned,” and “Way Back” felt both intimate and expansive.
Fan-favorites “Show Me” and the viral “Sing to You” turned into communal moments, with the audience snapping along and joining in harmonies that filled the room with warmth.
Joining him onstage were the exceptionally talented Tonita on bass and backing vocals, Greg Paul on drums, and Christian Alvaro on keys. Sonny Step even made an appearance for a saxophone solo. Each took the spotlight in turn, showcasing the band’s tight chemistry and musical finesse with solos that added texture and spark to an already rich performance.
John Splithoff didn’t just play a show; he orchestrated a homecoming, blending nostalgia with new beginnings, and left The Racket echoing with soul-soaked melodies long after the final note. Check out our other coverage on John Splithoff here.