Live Review: Black Uhuru @ Sony Hall (2024-09-18)
A celebration of one of the all-time great reggae bands
Event Details:
Date: September 18, 2024
Venue: Sony Hall (Manhattan)
Ticket Price: $40.78
Artists: Black Uhuru
Some time last year I got really into reggae music and spent a few months exploring a bunch of rocksteady, dancehall, roots reggae and dub artists. The hypnotizing, slow tempo rhythms and almost mystical vocals make it easy to relax to and I’m a sucker for phat bass lines. One of the groups that stood out to me was Black Uhuru, more specifically their release titled Sinsemilla.
Surprisingly, tonight was my first reggae concert and I was intrigued what the show would be like. I’ve only been to Sony Hall once before and didn’t remember it being one of my favorite venues, but it’s possible the bands I saw there didn’t match the vibe. It’s a block away from the heart of Times Square and has VIP table seating on both sides of the main floor, so it feels a bit more upscale than a standard standing room only concert venue.
Overall, the show met my expectations and was good vibes all around. A great example that you are never too old to let loose and enjoy some live music. There were people of all ages dancing, jumping around, singing the lyrics and even talking to Bob. I actually found it funny people were smoking so openly because I feel like certain genres get exceptions and some extracurricular activities are overlooked. But let’s be honest, good luck telling a 60 year old Jamaican to put out their joint.
Founding member, Derrick 'Duckie' Simpson, is the only remaining original member but the crew they had assembled for tonight’s show sounded great. For me, reggae is all about the rhythm and bass; the bass was bumpin’ tonight. Even as simplistic as most of it is, it just creates such a powerful emotional connection that makes it irresistible to at least bob your head and smile. I’m not familiar enough with their discography to recognize all of the songs they played tonight but definitely some of the classics, like “General Penitentiary” and “Sinsemilla”.
It wasn’t a sold out crowd but they had a decent crowd for a Wednesday night and everyone was having a good time. I’m not sure how many of the legends are still at it on the road but I will most certainly be keeping my eye out for future shows.
Cheers and keep rocking!