Ozomatli and Charlie 2na at The Fillmore, NYC, 20/3/09

Well, I moved flats and had a lil holiday in NYC and finally have internet connection! It’s been a bit since I’ve last done a gig review but this one was an absolute smasher and a bit special to say the least. I’ve wanted to see Ozomatli for a long time and 2na for even longer. I imagine like most people I came across the latter when I copped J5’s Concrete Schoolyard LP back in 98 (student rap baby!) Of all the MCs, his baritone flow stood out. Since then I followed his movements+ enjoying in particular his guest spot of Roots Manuva’s Join The Dots.

Ozomatli is one of the bands I just kept hearing good things about, particularly their live shows. One summer, a couple of years back I spotted they were playing a gig in London’s Hyde Park, unfortunately I never got my arse in gear kick enough to cop tickets. Since then I promised myself I had to check them the next time I saw them playing.

That time came on my recent trip to NYC. Having been spoilt by spending a week in one of the finest cities I’ve ever visited, I found myself flicking through Time Out’s events section. The city were spoilt for choice that week, Morrissey & The Courteneers, Fleetwood Mac, The Budos Band and The Roots all playing within days of each other. The last gig to grab my attention was Ozomatli and Chali 2na.

This time I didn’t chance it. The next day we went straight the box office to get tickets.

We arrived later than expected after a hefty steak unfortunately missing the support act Lioneyes (anyone seen them before?). Not long after The Spanish band took to the stage. I think what impressed me most was the fact that each member of the band was a proper musician. Their main MC would do a couple of tunes before going back to his drums, followed by the guitarist who would make his way forward to the mic and so on.

Ozomatli & Chali 2na - Super Bowl Sundae

The highlights for me were Super Bowl Sundae and the finale. Just when we thought they would be wrapping it up the band made their way into the middle of the crowd jamming away on their instruments. Obviously there was a surge as we all tried to get closer to the action. I soon gave up and turned away to catch up with my mates about how dope the gig was when suddenly Ozomatli and Chali 2na come past doing the conga through the crowd! Immense.

needless to say it was one the better gigs I’ve been to, topped off by meeting Mr.2na after the show and getting my picture snapped with him. Big night!

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