GIG REVIEW: Lupe Fiasco @ Enmore Theatre, Sydney

Many people say that there is a weak market for Hip Hop in Australia. I understand the hip hop fan’s frustration in a country such as ours; however I beg to differ from the previous statement.

The 20th of Jan, 2009 gave a rap-head like me some hope in the barren wasteland that is: “Sydney’s Hip Hop Scene”. The gig was Lupe Fiasco; the venue was the Enmore Theatre in Newtown.

I know that Lupe is an American artist; so how does an amazing rap artist like him give Aussie artists hope? Well, the gig opened by eyes to a thriving population of Australians who love hip hop. I’m not talking about the gold chains, diamond rings, luxury cars or booty shakin’ hoes. I’m talking about REAL hip hop; rap music that comes from the heart and soul.

Admittedly, I grew bored of the Aussie acts that supported Lupe; however the main event was an attraction to behold.

I’ve always found hip hop that utilises live instruments, very refreshing. Lupe’s band, 1500 Or Nothing, was nothing short that. Their high intensity head bopping, jumping about was very welcome and it got the crowd going.

Lupe, himself, was every bit the showman I was hoping he would be. He moved swiftly across the stage and directed his flawless, lyrical flow to several sections of the crowd and jumped to the beat. He even performed a back flip like a gymnast en route to a gold medal. The man is freaking amazing!

Lupe is not exactly known for his heavy beats, and quite frankly I thought this may be an issue. Great lyrical flow doesn’t necessarily translate to a high-energy live performance. Though, let it be known that Mr. Fiasco took my doubts, shredded them into little pieces, and disposed of them like unwanted trash.

“Lupe, I am so sorry for the minor doubts I may have had before your gig.”

He created different arrangements for several songs, making them sound heavier as if they were hard hitting club tracks created by Timbaland or Neptunes. These arrangements were not only smart choices, but pure musical genius.

My picks for the gig were ‘Go Go Gadget Flow’, ‘Superstar’, and his ode to Barack Obama: ‘Daydream’.

Rating: 5/5 - NUFF SAID!

Take care and peace out…