Reggae group Rebelution brought its feel-good sound to a sold out concert at the Marquee Theatre Feb. 15.
While the music was initially relaxed and positive, the crowd unfortunately was not. Because the show was sold out, many fans walked away from the box office disappointed when they were unable to acquire tickets.
Before the show started, several fights broke out in parts of the crowd of people close to the stage. Security was forced to remove at least three people from the premise before the lights dimmed, signaling the start of the concert.
After that, the stage emanated a happier and more appreciative vibe when inspirational rapper Pep Love opened the show with a solid hip-hop set that had many heads bobbing. Even more interesting and refreshing was his positive and sincere message of spreading harmony and love. Meanwhile, the bass from his background disc jockey shook the room.
Pep Love’s upbeat vibe was the perfect segue into Hawaiian reggae group The Green. Playing on a stage decked out with the band’s banners and even artificial trees, The Green stepped onstage to loud cheers from the packed venue.
Keeping with the night’s relaxed atmosphere, The Green played a set that had bodies swaying to the island-infused reggae beat. Even the band couldn’t resist dancing, and it was clear from the musician's smiles they were having a lot of fun.
Before Rebelution appeared, a sense of restlessness took over the room as people waited for the headlining band. Finally, the group took the stage to deafening cheers and applause, launching right into songs from all three of their albums, including the massively popular “Sky Is The Limit” and “Comfort Zone.”
Fans screamed every word, loudly cheering during lead singer Eric Rachmany’s guitar solos. The band also brought out a number of saxophone solos that had the crowd jumping.
The positive atmosphere during the band’s performance was palpable, along with the intense bass that continued to shake the walls of the Marquee Theatre.
Rebelution’s laidback set still managed to get the entire venue pumped up. Despite a rough start before the show, the smooth beats during the sets combined with an overwhelming message of peace, love and good vibes to make this concert one to remember.
Reach the reporter at okhiel@asu.edu
Click here to subscribe to the daily State Press newsletter.
