Eyes of the Elders

Snug Harbor

Nov. 7, 2009

The Deal: Eyes of the Elders performs its entire new album, EOE, and old favorites in front of recent and long-time fans.

The Good: Who knew the electric fiddle was so hip-hop? The fact that they could fit nine people with microphones and instruments on the tiny stage at Snug Harbor and still perform with any stage presence was amazing. The energy was awesome and because the venue was so tight it allowed lots of interaction with fans. Where else could you pass a rapper a beer on stage? Every musician really got a chance to shine during the show. Eyes of the Elders managed to squeeze in some theatrics as well, whether it was Uncle Fox rapping through a megaphone or stripping down to a dress + skateboard shoes, it was all entertaining.

The Bad: The band and sound people never figured out the right balance of band and emcees, one was always drowning out the other. Your best bet would be to learn the lyrics before you get there because you won't catch many of 'em at the show. I'm all for a great show and great band but the length was outrageous. 22 more songs after playing the whole new album? Jesus!

The Verdict: The Roots shouldn't be looking over their shoulders just yet but Eyes of the Elders are definitely a band everybody should see. Amazing show and musicians who leave every ounce they have on the stage. No one could say they didn't their monies worth.