93 ’Til Infinity. Actually, that’s quite enough. Like nuff said. Some people just need one shot and have a seat in the Hall of Fame reserved for their name and face at retirement. But sure, no taste committee. Opinions on bands and songs can vary. Only a select few manage to make a serious hit. But we’re not talking here. That’s indisputable. Facts. No questionable hits. This is about the HYMN! A bombshell that’s been seriously roaring and resonating since ’93 and clearly isn’t about to let up. The banger, which turned 30 last year, has been put through the toughest test of all, the test of time. And he passed.
But who is it really about? Who’s the East Oakland, California crew that imprinted themselves on eternity in ’93? Most bands break up. Because of money or girls or money and girls. The foursome of Tajai, A-Plus, Phesto and Opio shows that it’s a slightly different format of friendship. Brotherhood. They’ve been hanging out together since they were all in school. No pauses for sausage measuring and self-reassurance about who’s the alpha of the bunch. Instead, they’re the backbone of the quintessential rap tribe of the west – the Hieroglyphics party (Del The Funkee Homosapien, Souls of Mischief, Domino, Casual, Pep Love and the forgotten Extra Prolific). They toured the world. They released a total of six albums, and while none hit the hearts of listeners like the first with its immortal single, they still sell out venues to this day. Thirty-one years ago, they promised us they’d be around forever, and they’re keeping those promises.
And that will be celebrated, that will be celebrated. Last year it would have been round, but never mind, this year it will arrive square. We don’t see them here very often – a couple of times at Hip Hop Camp, most recently 2018, and maybe only in ’99 at the club. It’s obvious – can’t miss it now. On August 28 at Lucerna Music Bar, we need to show that even if it’s a bit hectic at times, we can chill here forever.
