Shabazz Palaces only came on my radar recently but have hit me in a big way, Lese Majesty looks a dead cert to make my AOTY list, so safe to say I was looking forward to their Nice N’ Sleazy show.
There is no support or opener, which unusual allowed Shabazz Palaces to get right down to action, Lazaro and Mararie make a bold entrance and announce themselves immediately to a buzzing packed out Sleazy’s (possibly the busiest I’ve ever seen it).
They then embark on perhaps one of the most encapsulating, vibrant and gripping sets I’ve ever witnessed, never quite settling into a specific rhythm and delivering every beat with impressive precision, Shabazz Palaces truly are a live spectacle.
Perhaps surpassingly the bands set does not rely heavily upon material from Lese Majesty, although ‘Forerunner Foray’ and new single ‘Motion Sickness’ go down a storm with the crowd.
A lot of tracks from Black Up and their two EPs fill the rest of the set, with Lazaro and Mararie’s chemistry and energy ensuring that a long set avoids any lulls.
I couldn’t begin to identify some of the instruments played, yet Mararie’s live percussion adds another dimension and some moments are simply stunning, not even a few over zealous punters at the front can distract Shabazz Palaces in their stride.
Once they finish playing I realise that two hours had elapsed without pause or interval, within those two hours Shabazz Palaces have taken the Glasgow crowd on a journey, a truly mesmerising set.
Probably one of my favourite I’ve seen this year, here’s hoping it’s not too long until they pass back through.
Words: Nick Ramsay
Agreed! I couldn’t believe they played for two hours. It was an excellent show.
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