When it comes to hip-hop, using a live band can occasionally nullify some of the more genre-exclusive qualities of a blaring instrumental; as gully as live percussion can be, the booming sonics of an 808 are irreplaceable. Yet the raw intensity of musicians in sync is a near-visceral scene to behold. It's no surprise that rappers have long implemented a backing band into their live repertoire, to admittedly varied results. Luckily, A$AP Rocky has always been ahead of the curve. Taking to Australian soil for a "Like A Version" rendition of "Praise The Lord," Flacko and his live band conjured up an organic and lush arrangement of the spirited single.
With a drummer, bassist, keyboardist, and saxophonist on deck, all elements are taken care of. It's honestly refreshing to hear this rendition, as it maintains the soul of the original while adding an organic sense of renewal. It's made all the better upon the arrival of Skepta, who holds it down with his verses and closes the performance with some memorable moves. Even if live performance footage isn't your bag, you would do well to give this one a minute of you time.
Peep "Praise The Lord" now via Triple J. Rocky also delivered a performance of Otis Redding's "(Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay," available below.