Arrested Development breathes hiphop in the Victorie

Hip-hop is a cultural movement and few groups embody this as explicitly as Arrested Development. Since 1992, they have been making socially conscious music and addressing social issues. In 2024, their new album 'Bullets In The Chamber' was released and the group returned to the Netherlands. Is their music still relevant? Perhaps more relevant than ever, as was evident in Alkmaar.

After a delightful set by DJ Fullscale, the stage was set for the group from Atlanta. The Afrocentric character of Arrested Development immediately became apparent when singer Fareedah Adeem passionately danced onto the stage. With percussion as a background, she electrified the crowd with a ‘Life Music’ flag in hand. This evening was a celebration of life and hip-hop culture.

Notably, the band opened the concert with their recent music. The motivating ‘Yes Always’ transitioned into ‘Hello’ from the new album, but not before emcee One Love delivered an impressive freestyle. “Welcome to this AD Vibe!” was aptly shouted by rapper Speech, who throughout the concert sounded just as clear as he does on his records. An amazing feat, decades in.

The group then took us to 1992, the year Arrested Development was discovered worldwide. The Atlanta band performed ‘Give A Man A Fish’ and ‘Dawn Of The Dread’ with great enthusiasm and did not hesitate to place ‘Revolution’ in the middle. The rebellious and healing nature of hip-hop was on full display tonight and the crowd loved it.

Singer Tasha Larae stood out during the many vocal lines that make the group’s music unique. Not just in the big hits, but also during ‘Fishin’ 4 Religion’. The Victorie almost gave the ambiance of a gospel church. Adding the boundless talent of Fareedah Adeem showcased the multidisciplinary nature of this skilled musical group. Even interpretations of Herbie Hancock, Kriss Kross and, House of Pain were seamlessly integrated live.

Arrested Development was also determined to make statements. ‘Africa’s Inside Me’ displayed boundless self-love, ‘Let Your Voice Be Heard’ motivated resistance against repression, and during ‘Bloody’, a song about collective responsibility, even Palestine was remembered. Refreshing in a world where music is too often about possessions and fame.

The band’s skill never disappointed. All members of Arrested Development delivered solos and brought the boombap hip-hop beats to life. ‘Raining Revolution’ received an acoustic treatment while emcee One Love performed a rapid, stunning chopper rap. The hip-hop group appeared stronger than ever live, with tons of passion and plenty of recent material to keep going.

However, nothing surpassed ‘Tennessee’, ‘Mr. Wendal’, and ‘People Everyday’. This trilogy of hits brought collective nostalgia to the audience and led to loud sing-alongs. They helped shape what is now known as ‘concious rap’ in an artform that is all about organizing and expressing yourself thirty plus years ago. The group still going strong, guided by the wisdom of Baba Oje.

Thanks to Arrested Development, the Victorie united in harmony. When the band members shook hands with fans afterward, there was only one conclusion left to draw - they did it for the FKN love.

Written for publication in Maxazine:

Arrested Development’s Timeless Relevance: A Night of Unity and Hip Hop