via Clash
What began as a joke on a 1996 episode of The Simpsons has now become a true multi-cultural milestone. ‘Black Sunday Live At The Royal Albert Hill’ sees the legendary hip-hop band Cypress Hill deliver a collection of their best songs, accompanied by the esteemed 70-strong London Symphony Orchestra. The live album is a trip down memory lane for a culturally iconic group who have influenced generations of hip-hop artists.
A clear standout is of course ‘Insane In The Brain’, Cypress Hill’s iconic signature song. The vibrant tune earned the group their first Grammy nomination and was an instant crossover hit. The same energy is delivered on the live version, with a call and response of “insane in the brain / insane in the brain…” The live arrangement is flawless and well suited to a live rendition. The orchestra perfectly recreates the iconic horn squeal of ‘Insane In The Brain’ to an electric, cheering crowd, and the high energy can be felt on the recording.
The orchestral arrangements and production are the album’s greatest strength and this particularly shines on the soothing ‘Hits From The Bong’ and the funky ‘Hand On The Glock’’.
Cypress Hill bring a nostalgic and bouncy 90’s flow across the album, with infectious adlibs on ‘Lick A Shot’ and a gritty cadence on ‘A To The K’. The album is lively and entertaining, and despite slightly shaky vocals at times, it feels like a family affair and breathes new life into the songs.
The album is accompanied by a feature length concert film with stunning crystal clear live visuals, with interviews from Cypress Hill and members of the London Symphony orchestra. The film helps to bring listeners one step closer to Cypress Hill’s captivating night at the Royal Albert Hall.
8/10
Words: Melvin Boateng