Last week was, quite simply, a massive week for hip hop in Canberra. We were blessed with not one but two major gigs that provided many a Canberran with the opportunity to bust a move. The first of these was Wednesday night at ANU Bar, where we were treated to the start of the Unified 2008 Tour; an Australian tour of universities which features the impressive line up of The Winnie Coopers, Funkoars and headliners Bliss n Eso. They each brought something fresh and funky to the table, they and rocked the crowds that turned up to witness the extravaganza.
The Winnie Coopers kicked off the night with their self confessed “nerd hip hop”, with outfits to boot and rhymes about computers – which is, naturally, what women look for in blokes. One thing is for sure, these boys give a new (and slightly less smutty) definition to MACs and lappies. It was a cruisy set which rolled along nicely to get everyone pumped for the evening. They warmed up nicely for Funkoars to follow, who – from my last experience – were set to put on an unforgettable live show. They certainly didn’t disappoint.
Coming off the back of their release ‘Greatest Hits’ – which had club bangers left, right and centre – the Oars wasted no time in taking over the stage. They occupied it with the signature Oars presence we’ve come to know, captivating their audience and leaving no head unnodded (yes, that’s a word… well it should be anyway). If you thought it couldn’t get any better then you were wrong; as Bliss n Eso carved through their set and even treated us to a few new tracks. They varied between old and new material, which provided for a dope sound. It was an eclectic blends of remixes, beat boxing and a hint of old school. Their new album, ‘Flying Colours’, is due out soon.
Partially as a result of tonight, I’m convinced that Aussie hip hop is merely at the beginnings of its revolution. People from all over the country will be treated with such a great night at Unified, and similarly will also be reminded of the growing culture that is captivating and uplifting its audiences. Subtext: do not miss the Unified 2008 Tour if you know what’s good for you.
