Cannibal Ox Bring the Noise to Webster Hall in New York City

It was closing in on 10 p.m, when Cannibal Ox hit the stage last night (Oct. 22) at Webster Hall. There had already been three lively openers who battled through minor sound problems to leave a few notable gems for the dedicated audience in attendance. Instead of repeating their names or shouting out their social media information to an annoying degree, the openers left the stage still basically anonymous, but could be satisfied that they had left the crowd even more anxious to hear Vast Aire and Vordul Mega. This wasby all means an old school affair; an oasis for those looking to escape from the codeine laced party anthems or club bangers, and focus strictly on the bars.

When the duo hit the stage to “Iron Galaxy” the crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable. Cannibal Ox did not have to spit a single word, as the audience rapped every line and rhyme right alongside. Aire and Mega ran through a flurry of hits from their highly touted debut album, The Cold Vein, which was a crowd pleaser for sure. Aire’s delivery of the first lines of “A B-Boy’s Alpha” demanded everyone’s immediate attention, then gave the crowd new energy to jump around and party.

Cannibal Ox’s long awaited sophomore album, Blade of the Ronin, came out earlier this year and the pair performed a few choice selections from the project. “Harlem Knights” sounds as menacing and lyrically heavy live as it does in the studio version. AIre’s and Mega’s chemistry and flow on that track are amazing. Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, MF DOOM could not make the show to participate in “Iron Rose” with the Ox, but the two endured and put on a lively rendition.

During the majority of the show, Double A.B., who served as hypeman, and fellow crew members flanked Cannibal Ox. There was a lengthy interlude where they let their featured artists take the stage and demonstrate their talent, but they were moving on and off stage so fast that it was difficult to tell who was who. Each rappers' energy was definitely felt, as they jumped, yelled, and flailed around during their brief show. However, it was a nice way to placate Mega, who seemed a little shy on stage and definitely preferred to be in the back, not the center of attention.

Overall, Cannibal Ox put on a show catered to those who are really looking to just enjoy some heavy underground bars. There were not a lot of moshing involved and much movement in the audience for that matter, besides for head bopping and arm flailing. Although, the crowds dedication and knowledge of the duo’s music made the concert worth the price of admission. To be around a group of hip-hop heads, who just wanted to enjoy some tough tunes, was a great way to spend a Thursday night.—James Elliott