Common

I never intended to write a review of this show for The Synthesis. It just happened. The show was so dope, you all need to know. Here, then, is what I remember…
So I see that Common is performing at the Fillmore on the 3rd of December and I think to myself, "Damn, I would like to check that show." I just love being able to just pop into the city for such events. After arriving at the Fillmore, finding a remarkably close parking spot and spending $16 on a single pitcher (Daaamnnn!) we went into the show. It was between sets and we had missed the opening act, Planet Asia (sorry 'bout that). About this time I looked toward the back of the violet-lit room and noticed something. There appeared to be a stage filled with instruments. Centered was a drum set, stage right was a DJ coffin and a guitar rig. To the left (stage left) was a bass rig, keyboard rig and another microphone. A live band? Common? Oh, shit. I had no idea this would be the case, and let me tell you, as a musician myself, I could not have been a happier person at that moment. Until they started, that is.
Across the darkened stage shadows moved. Then it began…some beautifully voiced chords coming out of a Fender Rhodes suitcase model. Warm chords playing in a little free cycle. This was almost immediately topped with a faint horn sound that sounded as a conch or big horn of sorts and was followed by the punch of the drum set and bass player. They were playing "Time Travelin'," the first track off of his newest album, Like Water for Chocolate. It is a tribute to Fela Kuti which, if you haven't heard of you should seek out. Right on cue pops out the man, Common, as he starts his verse of the night with a masterful sense of rhythm.
They play a few songs, including "Coldblooded," then the lights go out. Ten seconds later, the guitar player is lit up and he is sitting on his amp with some early '70s pimpy suit with a Rerun-type hat. He starts busting a smooth jazz progression as the band comes in, all wearing similar threads. Wardrobe changes are the theme of the evening, going through George Clinton P-Funk gear and afros to straight Run DMC Adidas and gold medallions. The set wanders through new and old songs mixed with covers including "Pass the Peas" by the J.B.s, and after introducing the band and some solos - including an amazing battle routine by the DJ - Talib Kweli jumps up from the side stage. Coming across with his trademark rhythms and tones, Talib simply rocked the mic, and also played one of my favorite hip hop tracks: "Respiration" from the Black Star album. Talib left stage and the show rounded out nicely with some favorites, including some De La Soul and Roots tunes.
All around, this was one of the best live shows of any sort that I have ever seen, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes soul, funk, hip-hop, and mad lyrical displays of profound thoughts. When it comes through next time, do not miss it. Peace

- Colby Barr

Bookmark: