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A&M recording artists
from Los Angeles 'Black Eyed Peas' hit London once again
with their brand of urban funk, hip-hop, rap and reggae-dub.
After last year's support slot with Christina Aguilera the
band have exploded into the stardom hitting the U.K. charts
with three top ten singles and their current platinum
offering 'Elephunk'. With CD sales now topping 4 million
throughout U.K. and Europe their profile has grown into
recognition, it's no wonder that The Forum in London tonight
is SOLD OUT to their full capacity of 2,000.
'Black Eyed Peas' .. flaunted a slick
performance at The Forum, London
Keith Harris is the stickman
who has over 400 worldwide shows under his belt with the
band and is part of the nucleus of the band's 'live' sound.
I caught up with him during their soundcheck late afternoon
and experienced a 'jaw-dropping' display of high octane R
'n' B grooves and slammin' licks - this guy will make your
head turn!!
His execution of speed and key point rhythm accenting was
really impressive but in particular locking down the
'groove' and his sensitvity, timing and accuracy - not short
of impeccable.
His cymbal choice include Sabian HHX Evolution
with the Latin 'El Sabor' and 'Salsero' Ride
His cymbal choice was an
interesting one - a cross between a Latin and Jazz Fusion
set-up. His choice comes from the HHX Evolution range and
flavored with the Latin 'El Sabor', 'Salsero' Ride and a
pair of cutting 12" HH Hats (check out his cymbal set-up
below). His use of the 'piggybacked' 10" HH China Kang was
statement-like and very innovative.
There is also a fair amount
of sequencing and sampling used from on stage electronics
and Keith's choice of cymbals sliced through the frequencies
let loose by their 'live' sound.
Keith Harris locking down the R 'n' B 'groove'
The lights go out and
reggae/ragga star Tippa Irie introduces the 'Black Eyed
Peas'.
There is a short explosive drum introduction from Keith and
the frontline members casually walk on stage to a hailed
welcome and open up with 'Hands Up' then straight in with
their current single, 'Hey Mama'. The band flaunted a slick
performance - you could only be drawn to it. Their 'live'
showcase can only be one to be experienced and includes an
unashamed antic display of break dance and gymnastics to add
to the 'wow' factor.
Keith is like a fuelled engine adding to the onstage
energy!
Keith Harris is like a
fuelled engine nailing the 'groove' contributing with his
own visual performance with sticks spinning right up to
their last number, the anthem-like single 'Where Is The
Love?' (co-written with Justin Timberlake in the aftermath
for 9/11 tragedy) - a great crowd sing-a-long.
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Keith Harris caught during soundcheck
The encore contained a
hard-hitting rhythmic jam incorporating their second single
'Shut Up!' and a feature spot for Keith to highlight his
drum 'chops'. With an impressive display of tasty drum licks
and speed supporting the 'groove', Keith now leaves his drum
seat and solos on a snare drum held by drumtech Bobby who
lures him to centre stage. Lying on his back Keith is still
playing the drum (the crowd go crazy), then back up on his
feet and finishes with a one handed drum roll (frenzied
response from the audience) - respect!
Keith Harris .... overwhelmed by the audience response!
With summer festivals
Montreux Jazz 2004 and Glastonbury 2004, the band will
consolidate their popularity and reach a wider audience.
'Black Eyed Peas' have raised the bar to the listening
public beyond curiosity to establish themselves and is
responsible for bringing their brand of R 'n' B to new
heights.
Keith greets Aaron Fagan who says "....an awesome
drummer and such a humble human being...."
Backstage we're joined by
Aaron Fagan one of the Brit's rising new breed of drummers
and he says "Keith Harris is an awesome drummer and more
importantly he is such a humble human being - his
personality really shows in his performance".
Drumtech Bobby points the set list for tonight
Check out 'Black Eyed Peas'
and drummer Keith Harris (look out for him in 2004) - it's a
wake-up call.
Keith Harris' Sabian Cymbal Set-Up:
- 21" Sig. Salsero
Ride
- 12" HH Regular
Hats
- 17" HHX Evolution
Crash
- 18" HHX Evolution
Ozone
- 18" AA El Sabor
Crash
(with 10" HH China Kang piggybacked)
- 17" HHX Evolution Effeks
Crash
For more information:
www.blackeyedpeas.com
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