Despite a change of direction towards a more folksy, laid-back sound on his most recent album, GreenWoodz had promised a “wicked party” for his launch party. The promise was kept: the rapper set Studio TD alight with his new songs, not forgetting his classics.
The Mandeville native was charismatic from the outset. Sporting a leather jacket and jeans, GreenWoodz has the aura of a rockstar. And when you say rockstar, you say crowd-pleaser: from start to finish, the audience in front of the stage was singing along to every one of his songs, word for word.
The evidence is striking: he maintains a special connection with those who listen to him. The launch quickly takes on the air of a great evening with friends. Throughout the party, he engaged in countless exchanges with those present, even going so far as to descend into the room on two occasions – notably for the excellent Lucifer, from his new opus.
Alongside him were a drummer, a guitarist alternating between electric and acoustic, and Cook Da Beatz, DJ and long-time accomplice. It’s on stage that the emo-rap influence that runs through his discography is fully revealed. Melancholy, love and sadness are the order of the day.
Halfway through the set, GreenWoodz approaches the audience and sits down on a small stool. He is about to perform Tommy, a poignant tribute to a friend who left too soon. Illuminated by telephone flashlights, the 7ième Ciel rapper delivers this track masterfully, bringing to life one of the most moving moments of the evening.
Fans at Studio TD were also treated to four special guests. Shreez, Rymz, Souldia and Aswell all took to the stage to perform their respective collaborations. The latter’s appearance for their track IDGAF confirmed that local hip-hop is in very good hands with these two men.
GreenWoodz delivered a generous, vibrant and flawless show. A launch in the image of its evolution.
