The Legendary Roots Crew!!!

The Roots
Kool Haus – 03.24.07
Rating: 10/10!

Like I’ve said so many times before, you’re usually hard pressed to find a good hip hop show coming through Toronto. Most artists just don’t seem to have the time or enthusiasm for hog-town. But every once in a while, there’s an exception to the rule.

For anyone who’s a hip-hop, soul, funk, or even rock fan, you’ve probably heard of Philadelphia’s legendary Roots Crew. Hell, you’ve probably even seen them live. If not, what are you waiting for? Last night The Roots made their triumphant return to Toronto in support of their latest release, “The Game Theory”, and man was it a party! Arriving at 10:15 pm to a massive line up around the corner and onto the Queen’s Quay, there was no doubt in my mind that this particular sold out show was going to be one of the best. As soon as we entered the building the fresh scent of ganja and the loud rumble of a sold out crowd filled the air. Finally, a real hip hop show. Opening support, Zaki Ibrahim set the mood properly by singing some slower r&b jams, easing the audience into soulful vibe. The Toronto-based artist played through several joints sounding as sexy and funky as everyone says she does. As we waited for the stage to be set up, DJ Agile of BrassMunk took to the one’s and two’s to set the mood properly, spinning loads of classic old-school like KRS-ONE, A Tribe Called Quest, and of course, the late great J-Dilla.

After 15 minutes, the lights went down and eyes gazed towards the stage. Only the Roots weren’t entering onto the stage, but rather, they were marching through the audience playing their instruments to a funky afro-induced jam-out led by ?uestlove. As the Roots slithered their way to the stage, the audience erupted with a warm embrace as our favourite hip hop group was getting ready to knock our hoodies off. Right from the get go, the Roots launched us into a full on funk assault playing classics like “Mellow My Man”, “Proceed”, and “You Got Me”. In between songs, Black Thought took his time to introduce each band member, allowing them to take their spot light and wow the crowd with a solo. This time around, the Roots were also supported by a marching band quartet called “Brass Heavens” who added a bounce to everyone’s step. In total, the crew consisted of about 11 members and even had choreographed dance moves to go along with every song.

It was clear that this was not just a tight band, but each were spectacular musicians who had all mastered their craft. They even took the time to play cover songs of rock classics like the Police’s “Roxanne” – as sung by ?uestlove – and Bob Dylan’s “Masters of war”. The Roots are truly professionals who can play any type of music dabbling in a little bit of soul, funk, afrobeat, classic rock, and even a short rendition of “Sexy Back”. After wearing the crowd out with a 2 ½ hour set, they finally called it quits just before last call with a jammed-out version of ‘The Seed’.

This was certainly a treat for Toronto from the legendary Roots Crew. I’m not usually one to give a show a perfect rating, but this particular concert had everything you could want; a show full of theatrics and bounce from the best funk, soul, afrobeat, r&b, and rock band I’ve ever seen. If you haven’t checked these guys out, be sure you do. You will not be disappointed.

REVIEWED BY: CRAIG HILL

Add comment March 26th, 2007