You know you’ve witnessed something special when you leave a gig dripping with sweat but with the biggest grin on your face. Needless to say, Jehst’s show at The Fleece this month did just that.
Following the release of his latest album Billy Green is Dead last year, the pioneering UK hip hop artist brought the project new life with a full live band tour. Kicking things off in Bristol, Jehst brought a striking energy and mic technique to the stage, along with the live band and his good friends Pitch 92, Confucius MC and Jazz T for support.
Despite the bad weather, the crowd were queuing out the door for the nearly sold out gig and by the time Jehst took to the stage, the eager crowd were ready to salute one of the most influential hip hop veterans to come out of the UK hip hop scene.
Playing a mixture of old and new, Jehst gave us a trip down memory lane across his extensive discography
Playing a mixture of old and new, Jehst gave us a trip down memory lane across his extensive discography, performing tracks like Nuke Proof Suit, The Illest, Weed, Starting Over and Billy Green is Dead. Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper Jehst gig without closing with his most loved track to date – High Plains Anthem.
Much to the crowd’s enjoyment, the band comically attempted a rewind with their instruments
It was mesmerising to bob your head as you witnessed some of your favourite hip hop tracks come to life before your very eyes, with help from a live drummer, bassist, pianist, DJ and Pitch 92 on his launchpad. Much to the crowd’s enjoyment, the band comically attempted a rewind with their instruments.
Jehst seemed to enjoy the response from the crowd too. He’s sometimes known for more pensive performances, but Jehst came jumping on stage full of energy and carried it throughout his entire set, engaging with the audience all the way through. This alone completely made up for last year’s rather slow Billy Green is Dead show at Marble Factory, and won back the love the wordsmith deserves from his Bristol fans.
By the time I had got home from the gig, my love and respect for the MC had been restored. Long live the UK hip hop king.
This alone completely made up for last year’s rather slow Billy Green is Dead show at Marble Factory, and won back the love the wordsmith deserves from his Bristol fans
READ MORE >> Interview // UK hip hop pioneer Jehst on his new concept album Billy Green is Dead
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