Statistiken
Biografie
Pharoahe Monch began his music career alongside Prince Poetry, as part of the duo, Organized Konfusion, quickly building fans for his witty and intricate lyricism. The pair recorded three albums together between 1991-1997 before deciding to split and end their partnership. Monch went on to pursue a solo career, moving towards a more aggressive style, signing to independent record label, Rawkus.
Monch then started guest appearing on several other artists’ records, most notably on Rawkus Records' bet selling compilation, “Soundbombing Vol. 2.” With much hype, Monch released his debut album, “Internal Affairs,” in 1999, featuring the hit single, “Simon Says,” peaking at number 9 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. Bolstered by this hit, the album gained momentum in the charts, just missing on a top 40 spot, peaking at number 41.
After his debut release, Monch released a number of singles, including “The Life (with Styles) and “Agent Orange.” He also collaborated with a host of names in hip hop, including Rass Kass, J Dilla, Pete Rock, Mos Def and Sa-Ra. After a few years, he returned with his second full-length, “Desire,” to further critical acclaim.
Monch returned with “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)” in 2011, a conceptual album, debuting at number 54 in the US Billboard 200 chart. The album attacked the difficulties facing an independent artist, as well as the black male experience in the US. Three years later, Monch created another conceptual record, titled “P.T.S.D (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder),” in 2014. His fourth album reflected upon the aftermath of his battle against the record industry, still struggling to exist as an independent musician. The album featured guests Talib Kweli and psychedelic band, the Stepkids, peaking at 102 in the Billboard 200 and number 19 in the US R&B/Hip Hop charts.
Live-Bewertungen
The venue is PACKED for Pharoahe Monch. The stage is simple, with DJ Boogie Blind with insane skills that rivals and yet perfectly complements Monch's performance.
Monch tells a good story through his words and likes to keep it simple on stage, there are no fancy lights or sets, just him and Boogie Blind, but that's more than adequate.
His last Australian tour was to help promote his new album, PTSD, and brought in rap newcomer and Adelaide native Dialect to open for his show there. The crowd shouts along with every word Monch speaks, and the crowd is full of energy. He ended the night after just under an hour with Simon Says, from the album Internal Affairs released in 1999, is bombastic and the crowd loves every second of it, waiting more from the legendary hip hop artist.
His lyrics and patterns are complex, and it translates over very well into the live show, where most acts are "easy, 4/4" rhythms. Pharoahe Monch is incredible live, and if given the opportunity, one should go to one of his shows. You'll leave knowing what hip hop truly is and have one of the best nights of your life.
I have followed Pharoahe Monch from his indie output on Rawkus Records via the Soundbombing 2 compilation through to his debut and sophomore releases, Internal Affairs and Desire. Pharoahe's dense lyricism attracts a nodding critical acclaim that is sadly not reflected in sales. His later output W.A.R and P.T.S.D. maintained his quality output and also garnered critical acclaim. News of a 2016 European tour schedule with UK dates in London, Bristol and Milton Keynes offered a welcome opportunity to witness his lyricism and energy up close.
My brother and I and a few thousand other hip hop heads were not disappointed. The full catalogue was represented including the 1999 hit "Simon Says" which sent the energetic and enthusiastic crowd into raptures. Pharoahe is a confident and expert performer and his live show and live band were tight. Numerous highlights included a virtuosic turntabism performance by his DJ. All in all highly recommended.
Amazing show. Pharoahe came out on stage "on time" (not always the case for a hip-hop show).He was accompanied by a great DJ (X-Ecutioners). The balance/flow between Pharoahe and his DJ was perfect. the DJ did a ton of scratching between, during and between songs which sounded incredible. Pharoahe & his DJ were witty & on point the entire show. Pharoahe brought soo much energy, he is very clear on the mic, pronunciates (is this a word) every word very well & has great stage presence.
I've seen many acts this year, Pharoahe is by far the best. Great energy, and fantastic lyrical skills in the renowned, intimate venue of the Jazz Cafe.
A great night.