Now that everyone’s looking back at New Years with mean hangovers and post-holiday beer bellies, we start to reflect on what’s usually the most overrated amateur night of the year—New Years Eve. Thankfully, at least in Southern California, New Years this year actually was quite nice, thanks to an exclusive Breakestra concert that kicked off the holiday weekend at Long Beach, CA’s Blue Café.
Breakestra rocks their performances a little differently than most bands with their “live mixtape” style. They flow from one song to the next like a DJ spinning records at a club, nonstop with no breaks between songs. They mix slick funk covers of the hottest old school hip-hop with original songs and renditions of James Brown and other funk classics.
Highlights of the set included insane funk covers of Tribe Called Quest’s “Oh My God,” James Brown’s “Get Up Offa That Thing,” Black Sheep’s “Choice Is Yours,” and a reggae version of Johnnie Cash’s “Ring of Fire.” Mixed in with the covers, Breakestra tore into their original tracks like “Burgundy Blues, “Family Rap,” and closed the set with “You Don’t Need A Dance.” Midway through the set, the band slowed things down and delivered a moving and emotional live rendition of “How Do You Really Feel,” a more ambitious, jazz fused song that’s a true stand out on their new album.
Before we knew it, Breakestra’s rocked an hour and half set straight through. It felt more like twenty minutes, and the Long Beach crowd definitely wanted more as the band left the stage. Breakestra’s got the formula down when it comes to funky ass live performances. Keep an eye on these cats, cop their album, and definitely make sure not to miss them when they roll into your town.
For more info see: breakestra.com
