Review: Talib Kweli Live at The Jazz Cafe

Photo: Talib Kweli

Talib Kweli returned to one of London's most nostalgic venues, The Jazz Cafe, for an exclusive gig on the last jam of his tour. Kweli is known for kicking it with the kings of hip hop during his two decade spanning career (he toured with Rakim and De la Soul over here in 2011), and attendees were glad to see his huge experience shine through in his performance.

From the very moment he walked on the stage he had captured the crowd’s undivided attention, the room was filled with die-hard fans that had spent their young years blasting out his tunes.

To put the crowds into a reminiscent mood he brought it back to the beginning and he hit out with 'Definition', the glorious ode to Boogie Down Productions' 'Stop the Violence' from the Black Star album that he wrote with Mos Def, which succeeded in getting the whole room bouncing. 

Kweli was ready for the evening and brought so much energy and charisma to the stage. He spent time actually connecting with the audience, making the most of the intimate setting. 

It was by far the closest we have been to someone so well respected as an artist, and he spent his time going across the front fist bumping the fans. Unfortunately Talib was not a fan of those in the VIP section just bopping their heads, so he dropped ‘Eleanor Rigby’ by The Beatles as a tongue in cheek aside to try and get everyone in the mood.

Vocally he still has it and it was a strong performance from start to finish, his stamina was especially impressive as he spent a lot of time free styling bars, this was something that went down a treat, and it was clear the performance was not excessively rehearsed so anything could happen.

He went through the ages and performed songs old and new including the sensual ‘Come Here’ (above) featuring Miguel, from debut album Prisoner of Conscious, which went down very well with the ladies in the room and later on dropped in ‘State Of Grace.’

He definitely knew how to win the crowd over and it was a truly outstanding performance - his will be a legend that lives forever.

Head here for more on the The Jazz Cafe.