Public Enemy at Brixton Academy, London

Contributed By: DeadPunx Created On: Thursday, 05 June 2008 Hits: 119 Public Enemy at Brixton Academy Live from Brixton Academy, London, 23 May 2008. Twenty years on from the release of their ground breaking album, Public Enemy took to the stage of Brixton Academy to perform It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back in its entirety. This seminal gig, part of the Don't Look Back season, was one of three taking place in the UK and came on the back of the album being voted the most influential hip hop album of all time. Public Enemy were one of the most political bands of their era. With tracks such as 'Fight The Power' and 'Don't Believe The Hype', they discussed issues many young black people faced at that time. Move forward twenty years and a lot has changed. I can’t help but wonder what Chuck D and Flava Flav thought of the Brixton crowd, made up mainly od young white indie kids. Of course, colour doesn't get in the way of appreciating good music, but it must be a far cry from those first gigs in the early '80s. This didn't stop the group putting everything they had into the performance. Despite an absent Professor Griff (apparently he couldn't get into the country - cue much government slating) and a retired Terminator X, the energy on stage was incredible. Chuck D's voice has barely changed and sounded as powerful as ever. Opening track 'Bring The Noise' had a brilliant reception from the crowd, as did 'Fight The Power', which encouraged many fists thrust into the air. 'Party For Your Right To Fight' was a favourite of the crowd as was 'Don’t Believe The Hype', which sounded absolutely amazing. Despite his reputation as the Bez of Public Enemy, Flava Flav pulled his weight, particularly with 'Cold Lampin' With Flava Flav'. Chuck D paid tribute to their retired DJ and encouraged the crowd to form an X sign before 'Terminator X To The Edge Of Panic'. The energy feeding back and forth from MC to audience created a brilliant atmosphere. Through Chuck D and Flava Flav's relentless energy and belief in their music, it was a truly amazing performance. Share this article to: Comments Only registered users can write comments! 3.25 Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved." What's On Related: Portishead Speak About Chuck D Joining Onstage (12-06-2008) Chuck D Speaks about Barack Obama (28-05-2008) Public Enemy to Play Classic Album on UK Tour (05-02-2008) Public Enemy: How You Sell Soul to a Souless People Who Sold Their Soul??? (08-12-2007) Prev Story: Tom Petty at Auburn Hills Next Story: Bruce Springsteen at Emirates Stadium

 

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