Reviews: |
The Washington Post, August 17, 1987
By Alona Wartofsky:
When Run-DMC took the Capital Centre stage Saturday night, it was a
moment worth reckoning. The whup-whup-whup of helicopters (a' la "Apocalypse Now") blasted out
of the speakers, along with Wagner's "The Ride of the Valkyries." Amid
a laser display of cartoon images celebrating the kings of rock, as
they bill themselves, they walked on stage with all the requisite
tough-guy posturing, and went right into the monstrous groove of "My Adidas."
This concert was worth note: two of rap music's most innovative and outspoken acts, Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys--one black, one white--on the estimable "Together Forever" tour, talking about racial unity and def-jams (the rap term for great music).
The successfully obnoxious Beastie Boys performed a raucously amusing
show similar to their last gig here. Their shtick may quickly grow
tired, especially for those over the age of 15, but they lay out a
good groove, like "Rhymin' and Stealin'," and that's what really
matters.
The remainder of Run-DMC's set lived up to its dazzling beginning.Through powerful raps, infectious charisma, good timing and the turntable wizardry of deejay Jam Master Jay, the group easily
transcended the inherent limitations of live rap performance. From the
bone-crushing "King of Rock" to a delirious "You Be Illin'" that
quickly became an all-hall sing-along, this was a rocking good time. |
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