Escobar season returned to the DMV on Sunday, July 21st when the iconic MC Nas graced the stage at Wolf Trap in Vienna. The God's Son was joined by the National Symphony Orchestra, a unique collaboration led by conductor Steven Reineke. The evening's theme was a 30th-anniversary celebration of Nas's debut album "Illmatic," which he performed in its entirety, in a truly one-of-a-kind performance.
This concert was my third time seeing Nas perform locally. I saw him last fall with the Wu-Tang Clan in 2002 as one of the opening acts for Usher's "8701 Evolution" tour. However, seeing the NSO perform a Hip-Hop show always has a great vibe, so it was mandatory to attend this show. While the show didn't start on time, the moment Nas appeared on stage dressed in an elegant white sports coat and sleek black dress pants, all was forgiven.
For those well-versed in Hip-Hop culture, it is widely recognized that "Illmatic" showcases intricate multi-syllabic internal rhymes and compelling inner-city narratives. These elements draw from Nas' firsthand experiences growing up in the Queensbridge Houses in Queens, New York. The themes explored in "Illmatic" offer a profoundly insightful examination of subjects such as gang rivalries, desolation, and the impact of urban poverty.
Nas, who was just twenty years old at the time of the album's release, meticulously portrays his personal experiences. He crafts highly detailed first-person narratives that dissect the troubled existence faced by inner-city youth. That said, forty years later, it was clear that the Queensbridge MC was at peace with his childhood.
Nas ran through his debut album as a seasoned pro. One of my favorite performances of the show was hearing Nas speak on the production elements behind the song. However, the crowning jewel of the night was when Nas's longtime friend and collaborator AZ joined him on stage to perform "Life's a B****," which sent the crowd into a frenzy.
After performing "It Ain't Hard to Tell," the concluding track from his debut, Nas thanked the NSO, but the party wasn't over as Nas and his performed energetic of his later catalog. "Nas Is Like," "Spicy," "The Don," and "You Owe Me" all had the crowd on their feet. AZ even came back on stage to perform "Phone Tap," "Mo Money, Mo Murder "Homicide," and "Sugar Hill," solidifying his kindred rhymeship with Nas.
The third collaboration between Nas and the National Symphony Orchestra was an extraordinary experience that left a lasting impression. The innovative fusion of hip-hop and classical music produced a distinct and mesmerizing sound that effectively bridged genres. I look forward to seeing the NSO continue its collaborations with Hip-Hop artists in the future.
Final Grade: A
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