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Loading ...392 views - No Comments - October 1st, 2007 by CB
SANTA MONICA, Calif. Jul. 27, 2006 - I was in the LA area on business and was looking for something fun to do in the evening. I decided to Google “Hip-hop in Santa Monica”. I was overjoyed to see that Darra J was performing at the Santa Monica pier-FOR FREE! With 25 minutes to travel through commute LA traffic I grabbed my purse and bounced out my hotel room.
Arriving at the beginning of the pier, out of breath from running with heels on, I followed the sound of Fadda Freddy’s soothing vocals on Exodus which led me to the spot. Fitted in fly, traditional Senegalese gear the 3 man crew were working it out. I was surprised to see a good size number of older white folks posted up in their lawn chairs in front of the stage watching the show. As the show progressed Darra J got the crowd dancing, singing, clapping and participating in some call & response. Chairs stared folding up and were set aside while others held their ground not wanting to loose their spot as fans danced around them.
Daara J’s music is a mixture of African traditional sounds with Hip Hop, Reggae, Soul Funk, Jazz and Afro-Cuban style. They sing in Wolof (Senegalese language), French, English and Spanish, with positive messages creating a beautiful melting pot of sounds, rhythms and style.
Fadda Freddy is the lead spokesperson and communicator for the group and has a polished voice. The big man, Aladji Man, brings the most energy and is the fire starter. And the third player, N’Dango D, holds it down for Darra J and takes on a role similar to Ali Shaeed Muhammad from A Tribe Called Quest. He makes sure the group stays on task and additionally he brings his own brand of rhyming skills. DJ Neasso cannot be forgotten as an important part of this group. He lays down some tight beats and is good at anticipating what the 3 MCs are about to do and say.
It’s okay to love and covet the bling, but you must also bling in your heart.
Daara J’s physical performance was impressive as well. The dancing, jumping and sharing of the stage was a delight to watch. In addition, Fadda periodically would share the group’s philosophy which was best said in reference to America’s hip-hop culture: “It’s okay to love and covet the bling, but you must also bling in your heart.” Overall the show was very enjoyable and vibes were nothing but positive. - Photos by Joseph sciarrillo
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