92YTribeca transformed their main stage yet again Saturday night, playing host to PitchBlak Brass Band, Brown Rice Family and Underground Horns. The pre-show atmosphere was electric as the packed house eagerly awaited a night of brass-backed hip-hop, roots and world fusion.
As PitchBlak stormed the stage and launched into the opening set, it was clear we would not be disappointed. Anchored by Chanell Crichlow’s Sousaphone, they brought the crowd to a fever pitch with their brash beats and rich sound. Not be outshone by the brass-heavy ensemble, saxophonist Alison Shearer repeatedly challenged the horns as she grooved her way towards center stage, resulting in high-energy trade-offs which continued throughout their set.
Building upon the vibe which permeated the room following PitchBlak, Brown Rice Family launched into their world roots/hip-hop set as the crowd seemed to swell in the already-packed house. Fronted by the Che-channeling Okai Fleurimont and the fast-stepping Sticky, the Family’s jam-backed lyrics had the crowd jumping, dancing and raising their hands as they powered through the set. The crowd seemed poised to riot as they announced their set was coming to a close, but a sweat-soaked Okai quickly subdued the masses by reminding us that the Family’s brand of handmade organic soap was available at the merchandise table. Shower not included.
Brooklyn-based Underground Horns rounded out the exhilarating night. The crowd eased into the set, absorbing the rich tones emanating from saxophonist Welf Dorr and swaying to the afro-funk grooves being laid down by the rest of the group. A fitting close to an energetic, brass-filled evening at 92Y.