Encore featuring Naughty by Nature – Pumphouse, Darling Harbour: Saturday November 15

Encore featuring Naughty by Nature – Pumphouse, Darling Harbour: Saturday November 15

Review by Mawunyo Gbogbo

Just a few months shy of Naughty by Nature’s 20th anniversary in the music industry, the iconic rappers have proven they still have what it takes to rock a crowd. But there was a sombre shadow cast over an otherwise superb show when the rappers announced the untimely death of one of their fans. The 31-year-old man was planning to attend the concert but had recently lost his life to a heart attack. In the midst of crowd euphoria, Naughty by Nature interrupted the live show to pay tribute to him.

While this fan had no choice in missing a show he bought tickets to see, others did, but opted out anyway. The concert began four-and-a-half hours later than scheduled, leaving some frustrated and driving others to sell their tickets while waiting in line outside. Ironically, the rappers still weren’t ready when the energetic MC, Suga Shane, prematurely introduced them to the stage. But there was really no introduction necessary. Known then as The New Style, the group released its first album in 1989 with the prophetic title ‘Independent Leaders.’ They’ve since gone on to become just that.

It was the fourth time Naughty by Nature had toured Australia since 1996. This time around, DJ Kay Gee was noticeably absent. Vin Rock appeared first, standing to the left of stage with microphone in hand while he dropped a verse. He was followed shortly afterwards by Treach. Together they launched into the hit ‘O.P.P.’

The last minute change of venue to suit a more intimate crowd was a major bonus for fans. Audience members were able to get so close to the rappers, it was possible to see the sweat gleaming from their pores. On top of that, you could touch them. Treach and Vin Rock kept reaching out into the crowd to shake hands with those watching the show. One excited woman took advantage of their close proximity by jumping on stage and dancing alongside them before being carried off by security. The atmosphere was similar to a night out clubbing, except the crowd’s attention was transfixed to the stage.

The audience was heavily dominated by the male species, but Treach treated the women to a gradual strip show. He was wearing a hoodie when he initially graced the stage but shed layer after layer of clothing in between each track until he eventually tore his singlet open to reveal his bare chest. Oh yeah, the night also featured some great music.

Naughty by Nature performed their biggest hits including ‘Hip Hop Hooray,’ ‘Jamboree,’ and the crowd favourites ‘Holiday,’ and ‘Craziest.’ But if blindfolded, you could be forgiven for thinking Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Slick Rick, Cypress Hill, Men at Work and a host of other stars had briefly dropped in for a visit. In between their own hits, the rappers dropped snippets of songs from a variety of artists.

Treach paused every now and then to down a mouthful of alcohol, and poured out a little liquor to honour his late friend Tupac Shakur. Treach appeared alongside 2pac in the 1992 movie ‘Juice.’ Naughty by Nature performed samples of 2pac’s songs, including ‘California Love,’ during their tribute to him.

For the most part, the night was full of laid back fun, but the rappers got a little political by bringing up the US election, saying it was a new day, with Barack Obama voted into the Presidency. They also encouraged the Aussie audience to support the local Hip Hop industry.

Naughty by Nature was supported by Melbourne duo Phinesse, who have also toured with 50 Cent and Lil’ Jon. On this occasion they only blessed the crowd with a few songs. DJ Samurai and DJ Flygirl Tee were on the ones and twos prior to Naughty by Nature’s performance.

The New Jersey rappers put on a great show, and for those who stuck around to experience the performance, it was definitely worth the wait. They’ve proven they have none of the rust one might associate with two decades in the entertainment business. Instead, it wouldn’t be surprising if they continued to tour for many years to come. One can only walk out of a concert like that with a sense of satisfaction and even greater respect for the performers.

I was at the concert and totally agree! Great Review!