Anzac long weekend was more about a late night than an early morning for the sold out crowd that was attending the first stop in De La Soul’s Australian tour. It’s been 20 years since the release of their groundbreaking album 3 Feet High and Rising and joined by a 10 piece band the Rhythm Roots All-Stars, this was sure to be a special night.

The party really started with an unassuming entrance from one of the world’s foremost turntabilists Cut Chemist, who’s most famous for his work with Jurassic 5 and collaboration with DJ Shadow. It has been nearly a year since Perth saw this boy last, and everyone were pretty pumped to see his ‘three piece band’, including live VJ and MC. I doubt I wasn’t the only one speechless at the skills this man displays. Not only did he scratch up a storm, but have a visual show matching the cuts and beats put down, and for a refreshing change, the DJ actually looked energized and was enjoying putting the show on as much as the audience enjoyed receiving it. Chemists’ passion clearly shows within his performance, a quality fewer artists possess now days.

It took a while before the stage was ready for De La and the band. This unfortunately had an effect on the length of the performance, as the public holiday rule of not operating was in force. But as the ultimate professionals they are, this fact did not put a damper on the show.

Opening with The Bizness from their album Stakes is High, Posdnuos (AKA Kelvin Mercer), Trugoy the Dove (AKA David Jolicoeur) and Pasemaster Mase (AKA Vincent Mason) hyped up the crowd. It wasn’t long before they sung probably one of the most loved De La tracks, Me, Myself and I – to hear it live is a highlight for any fan. One of the best qualities these guys have is their ability to flawlessly execute each and every track and the vigour of the group, still raging high after 20 years is a credit to them.

Bringing on a special guest, Black Sheep frontman Dres, and backed by the superb Rhythm Roots All-Stars, De La got through all their hits, including Ooh, Peas and All Good. Leaving the stage and a raucous crowd behind, we knew and they knew there had to be an encore. For a solid 5 minutes they kept us guessing, but with such encouraging chants from the audience, how could they not come back? Upon their return to stage, for what was possibly the highlight of the night, De La put down their rendition of the Gorillaz tune Feel Good, which sounded better than any recorded version. They finished off the night with the timeless Saturday and a Run DMC track.

A quality night from start to finish, proving that even after 20 years you can still be on top of your game. Top shelf hip hop, and a night never to forget: if only more events like this existed.