Brother Ali
I’m not usually familiar with modern hip-hop, so attending this show was admittedly a little out of my element. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t want to enjoy myself. A went with a friend who swore by Brother Ali’s music and general all-around fun vibe he exudes during his shows. Also I’m not one to turn down a concert.
Los Rakas
First up was Panama exports (by way of California) Los Rakas. I usually can’t understand what most hip-hop artists are rapping but when you add a Dizzee Rascal-like flow with (probably) another language, I couldn’t tell you what they were singing about at all. Even when they would yell out before each song, “This one’s about living your life and not letting anyone cut you down!”, …okay, you won’t find anyone arguing about that, so preach it brother. But it was a unique and fun style and I wasn’t bored for a minute. Their stage presence was very animated and carefree, which mirrored the music they performed. Not my thing, but fun to watch.
Eligh
Eligh
Next up was a fraction of the historic hip-hop group Living Legends, Eligh. I can’t honestly compare his style to any other (probably because I’m horrible with hip-hop references) but it was without a doubt and rapid fire flow that exploded with the first song. Very gritty and honest from what I witnessed, Eligh brought a much needed proverbial uppercut to this somewhat clean-cut show.
Brother Ali
Brother Ali
Brother Ali
Lastly (from what I saw; I decided against seeing headliner, The Grouch) was big pappa himself, Brother Ali. With a career that spans back to 2000, Ali didn’t waist time rocketing through songs from his most recent album, Us, to his earlier work from Rites of Passage. In between each song, Ali would make sure everyone was on board with the show and no one was left behind. Even stopping the DJ when there seemed to be the slightest downgrade of crowd participation. One thing I could have done without was Ali’s fair share of speeches between each song. And none of it was anything prolific or philosophical, just him asking why can’t we all just be at peace and ‘party’ (even thought he’s outwardly straight-edge). We get it man, you’re not saying anything that’s debatable, just play your music.
However, my friend was spot-on about Brother Ali’s stage persona. He’s a smooth flowing bundle of fun that doesn’t let up when it comes to energy. Every song was as passionate as the next, like this was his favorite place to perform and we were all his friends. I’ll admit I drank the kool-aid that night and was very much enjoying myself. I might have to expand my musical horizons this new year if this is what to expect from modern hip-hop concerts.
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[mp3] Brother Ali – Us from Us (2010)
Brother Ali / Click this photo for more pictures from this show