Live Review: Common, Talib Kweli

Hip hop is enjoying a thrilling renaissance that sees the form sprawling in all directions. Its relevance and vibrancy are matched by its creativity, but that nebulous success can be traced back to a few OG pioneers that have been spitting for decades. Talib Kweli and Common are two conscience rappers that have been shaping hearts and minds with stories of street corner life for a long time, and the crowd at their Enmore show demonstrated their support and respect with gusto, reflecting a positivity and love given freely and with style.

Talib Kweli performed a stripped back set that abstained from the showy physical accoutrements and wealth symbolism often associated with rap culture. It was about wordplay and context. The man that is arguably responsible for Kanye's introduction to mainstage rapping is truly gifted with his cadence, with verses from Lonely People and Get By smoothly flowing in liquid monotones of alliteration and vivid imagery. A Black Star number saw hands flung up, his heartfelt appeal to inclusion and acceptance demonstrating a will as well as muscle. It's always a little tense seeing someone trying to hype a crowd. Modern audiences are cautious creatures, cynical by default, struggling against the will to let go. Kweli wrestled with them and succeeded, getting everyone moving with some thick Dilla beats and strong showmanship.

Common raced out like a boxer into the ring. Gospel singing accompanied a frantic verse, and although his style was less gymnastic its power was based on weight and force — something he had plenty of. Common's delivery was measured and confident, and he exploited a rich catalogue. The Corner stood out, with the Oscar winner (!) shouting out to all acolytes of hip hop, be it from Chi Town or Dubbo. If the crowd warmed up to Kweli, they were fully charged with Common. It was slick, but oozing with charm. Again, there was a solid core of warmth and inclusion that elevated everything.

Rap has a lot to say, but these guys kept the message on point, as always.