Music > Live Reviews

Section Boyz @ the Waterfront

25/04/16

The Tropico boys made a stealthy return on the 22nd, bringing Section Boyz, Jman and Obongjayar to the stage of Norwich Waterfront, and it's safe to say it went off. 

With the usual funk you'd expect from Tropico DJ's the night had begun; the set pushed a good vibe throughout the venue which nicely ushered in the first act, Norwich local Obongjayar. Possessing an thoughtful, natural approach to hip hop the flow is real, as are the lyrics. Full of confidence by being surrounded by friends and fellow Norwichers, the performance given was sterling. The real winner for this guy is his ability to integrate a fresh sounding voice over instrumentals which mirror 90's hip hop, then at the appropriate times strip it all back to create emphasis on the lyrics. Props to him, watch this space. 

Jman and Patrice are next to show us what they have to offer and there's no waiting around; we're thrown right in at the deep end and the crowd are loving it. If you like UK hip hop, don't flop and all that malarkey, then Jman is the guy to watch. His take on hip hop mixed with dub and reggae-like sounds is completely irresistible. The duo's confidence and talent travels further than the stage and drives fans to a frenzy. No better way to get hyped for what was about to happen next. 

After what felt like the longest wait in the history of the world, (although realistically about 15 minutes, excitement got the better of me), south London rap gods Section Boyz took to the stage, and the energy was out in force tonight. Working through a dirty but perfect grime set, believe me when I say there was never a dull moment. Between being winded by Eastpak rucksacks on jumping fans and blocked views from Nike caps, from what I did see the movement on stage was impressive and passionate. It's refreshing to see talent bouncing off individuals and what better way to experience it than in a sweaty Waterfront bunker. As the evening drew to a close the lights lowered and Lock Arff was thrown into the mix. Pitch black room, nothing but phone lights..you do the math. 

A great evening, if you weren't there you better have a bloody good excuse. Don't panic though, Tropico are back with Wiley on May 29th. Be there.