Sunday, January 5, 2014

Wu-Years Eve @ Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom [12-31-13] (Review)



Review By: Justin D'Amico



New Years Eve was poppin off at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom with three members of possibly the biggest hip-hop group ever The Wu-Tang Clan. Method Man, Ghostface Killah, and Raekwon the chef came through Denver for a legendary performance in front of a sold out crowd. They would bring the ruckus and show why they are all icons of hip-hop. The night was more than just ringing in the new year, but also a celebration of the end of marijuana prohibition. Wu Years Eve was an incredible party and a perfect way to spend New Years Eve.


The night started off with local talent, DJ Hoppa on the decks. DJ Hoppa layed down some fat beats as the people began to fill the room. His set went between hip-hop and trap beats to get the juices flowing. DJ Hoppa kept the people involved early with shout outs on the mic.


Next up was one of Denver's own hip-hop groups The Foodchain. They are a 7 man hip-hop band who all preform either on the mic, or on a number of instruments played live. The live bass guitar sounded beautiful and added a unique feel for a hip-hop performance. The Foodchain killed it, they were a great opener for The Wu-Tang Clan.


Photo by: Brandon Marshall


Wu-Tang came on stage just before the mountain time ball dropped. A tone was set immediately, as Method Man took the lead with his hilarious personality and one of a kind style. Method Man got everyone to cheer mentioning the historical lift of marijuana prohibition which had at midnight become official. Then right into the set with "M.E.T.H.O.D. Man" the perfect opener. Before the first song was over Method Man was already comfortable enough to stage dive into the packed crowd. Raekwon stepped up next with some of his solo work from "Only Built for Cuban Linx". Then another switch up with Ghostface Killah showcasing his solo music from "Supreme Clientele". The tag team would go back and forth through out the set, in and out of solo songs and back into Wu-Tang Clan bangers too. The three would also spend a little time honoring those who have passed away, including Jam Master Jay, and of course ODB. The tribute included "I Like It Raw" and "Brooklyn Zoo". The closer for the amazing performance was "Triumph", where each of the three would do their part and also fill in for a missing member to complete the song. The set was completely unique and unrehearsed, which made for a beautiful spontaneity in the performance. 



Wu Years Eve was very intimate show with everyone in the crowd having a personal connection with the Wu-Tang Clan by the end of the night. The New Year was effectively kicked off with a nice comforting cloud of smoke and outstanding hip-hop flows. Wu Years Eve was equally enjoyed by the crowd as well as Method Man, Ghostface Killah, and Raekwon. Method Man has plans to return with his friend and fellow rap legend Redman on April 20th, the same weekend as Cannabis Cup coincidentally. Hopefully The Wu-Tang Clan comes back next year for round two of Wu Years Eve at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom.

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