Show of the Week: Jurassic 5 at the Greek

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“Has Jurassic 5 really been around for 20 years already?” (checks Wikipedia)

“Huh, no shit. I guess they have.”

Well, sort of. They’ve only hit 20 years if you’re not counting the span from 2007 to 2013 where they weren’t really doing anything. I mean, if you really want to look at this thing critically, you can ask if Jurassic 5’s 20th Anniversary Tour is a heartfelt throwback, or just an effective way to get a dead group back on the market.

But why ask that? Jurassic 5 is way too fun to be put under a microscope. The fact of the matter is, J-5 is playing the Greek tomorrow, and it’s gonna be a sick show. It’s always a sick show, that’s half the fun of this group.

Founded in 1993 and fronted by “the verbal Herman Munster,” Chali 2na, Jurassic 5 has always been known for their down the line, no frills, no shock factor hip hop. It’s really an intriguing middle ground they’ve found where they still possess a lot of street cred, even though most of their tracks are family friendly enough to put on for your grandma. It’s the kind of music that should make Will Smith really jealous, even though you know it doesn’t.

The best part about Jurassic 5 is their live performance. Hands down. Don’t get me wrong; they’ve got great recordings. Power in Numbers is a classic album. But in order to really appreciate this group, you have to see them live.

Chali 2na is a master MC in the truest sense of he word. He is a Master of Ceremonies. Backed by DJ Nu-Mark and Cut Chemist, and rappers Akil, Zaakir and Marc 7 there is a lot of talent to showcase on stage. The atmosphere is fun, and at a venue like the Greek, I’m sure this one is going to be worth every dollar you pay to get in.

Oh, and Dilated Peoples are opening. So there’s that, too.

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What: Jurassic 5 

Where: Greek Theatre, 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles 90027

When: Saturday, July 12 at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $29.50-$49.50

Contact: (323) 665-5857 or Ticketmaster.com

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