Look, we realize the Roots will always be a Philly band, through and through. That said, it’s hard not to claim them as ‘ours’ when ?uestlove and company spend half of their time in New York City, either on Jimmy Fallon’s late-night show or at special $10 “Jam” shows. Last night was a first in that department, as the Roots moved their usual Highline Ballroom residency to Brooklyn Bowl for a one-off performance.
While the open-eneded bill began in round robin style at 10 p.m., the group didn’t appear the least bit tired at 12:30, as they backed Ursula Rucker for a pair of fiery slam poetry pieces. Things kicked into high gear soon after that, with a short Roots set and guest appearances by Talib Kweli and our boy from a post ago, Mayer Hawthorne. Here are clips of four songs from this part of the night…
