The Paramount Theater in Oakland has the look of an old opera house. The gorgeous paintings and vaulted ceilings give the ancient venue a look that few others have. It wasn't quite a black tie affair this Friday night though, as Mos Def hit the stage. The Theater hummed in anticipation as the rapper, who has now become more famous for his acting, emerged on stage.

Lil Wayne's "A Milli," began to play as the small audience awaited the Wayne refrain that everyone felt coming. As the recording hit the now famous rhyme "Where is Erykah Badu at?" the songstress finally appeared.

Donning a red dress, Badu slowly made her way to the mic stand. A unique, unforgettable set followed. In today's musical climate many artists are too afraid to step out of the proverbial box, pushed by record and ticket sales rather than art. Badu is an artist who is completely different than anyone else out there. Flanked by apple laptops and a keyboard Badu's voice took over the set. Her four band mates stood behind her, all manning computers. The choreographed dance routines were entertaining as were Badu's rants about what's happening in the world, more specifically in Africa. But, the thing that will stick with every audience member is Badu's stage presence and her ridiculous musical talent. Although Badu has yet to make it to the upper echelons of fame, she's well on her way. And if she never gets there something is very wrong with the music industry.

Mos Def emerged stage left with two giant drumsticks and went to work. For more than five minutes Mos flailed about behind the massive drum kit kicking out rhythms and beats that had the audience on their feet. Ten minutes later Mos had stopped making beats and was mid rhyme as he worked the small stage. The audience is so close at this venue that the artists had a chance to strike up conversation with fans in the front rows. It was made clear that the night would be relaxed when opening act Jay Electronica graciously accepted a joint from a few audience members, and preceded to give them better seats for their trouble. So Mos followed in Electronica's footsteps making sure to address the audience during down time.

The actual musical performance was mediocre. Mos Def is a talented rapper but his vocals sounded muddy being blasted through the speakers and it was hard to make out what he was rapping and at times what song was even being performed. Despite the poor sound quality it's hard not to like Mos Def and get pulled in by his captivating stage presence.

This night was unlike any concert in recent memory. It lacked the seriousness that comes along with a big show. There were no security guards lining the front of the stage and the artists seemed happier to be there, as if it were by choice and not contractual. The musicians were accessible and friendly. Although the Paramount didn't sell out, the show had the same electricity that it would had there been no empty seats.


Review By: Tyler Sobie