Live hip hop has always struggled to convey the precision and delivery of finely crafted recordings to the live stage. Too often are lyrical content and production marred by inadequate sound systems, overreliance on studio magic, and ultimately the energy required to pulling off an engaging and convincing live show.
Enter Cypress Hill. Arguably the most successful hip hop group to cross over into the mainstream, the band’s relentless touring schedule and dedication to a high energy interactive live experience have cemented the group’s 25 years and counting legacy. With no new album or release to promote, the set focused exclusively on hits and fan favourites. With a minimal stage set up of simply DJ Muggs’ turntables and percussionist Eric Bobo’s drum set, the open space and lack of backdrop or stage props placed all eyes on the energy and delivery of MCs B-Real and Sen Dog. Through drifting clouds of smoke, the duo’s natural chemistry and communication fed off the crowd hanging on to every word and verse. Bringing out classics Insane in the Brain and How I Could Just Kill a Man early in the set, the band flaunted the quality and expanse of their repertoire throughout the performance. It’s refreshing and reassuring to witness a band acknowledging the quality of their early releases despite releasing their first two quintessential albums over 20 years ago, yet the band performed tracks for what must be the thousandth time with the utmost energy and conviction.
Lighting up a large joint at the peak of their set, B-Real affirmed the band and the crowd’s longstanding dedication and love for Mary Jane in the simplest gesture possible. For a band that hasn’t had a hit single in well over ten years and by all standards of the music industry should be washed up and all but forgotten, Cypress Hill have held on firmly to their place as dedicated performers.
BY JOE HANSEN
Photo by Mark Stanjo
Loved: The soundtrack of my Year Seven.
Hated: The lack of Tequila Sunrises at the bar.
Drank: Not Tequila Sunrise.
