I spent this last Saturday in Clinton Hill, at the all-day Brooklyn Bazaar Block Party hosted by Def Jam’s Danny Simmons and Ghetto Metal Productions. We couldn’t have asked for a better day to spend outside – good people, good BBQ, and really good music.
Ghetto Metal is the movement of NYC’s Rock/Hip-hop scene, headed by artist Bazaar Royale. There were about 10 acts that played Saturday and most put on a great performance, most notably Shinobi Ninja, Niki Darling, Stereo Crowd, and Bazaar Royale himself.
I was impressed with the way all these artists and bands with similar sounds came together and supported each other. Everyone I talked to seemed to know everyone else there and it really felt like people were enjoying themselves and enjoying the music.
What people there may not have known was how poorly organized the event was; several bands (Belikos, J.U.S. Evolution) didn’t even get to perform because the show started so late. Many of the artists I talked to were not happy with how late their sets were starting and how early they were being cut off. And in addition to that, the sound cut off early in the day when the speakers blew. Luckily someone went and found a new PA system to keep the music going.
However, despite the behind-the-scenes drama and timing issues, the event came off as a success. Everyone there seemed to enjoy themselves and the weather, the bands each gained a few new fans, and the “Ghetto Metal” movement gained some more steam. I can’t wait for next year’s 3rd annual Brooklyn Bazaar Block Party!