Soul Cannon is the Best Band in Baltimore

If you were at Soul Cannon’s show last night at The Ottobar, it is very hard to argue that statement.

Soul Cannon is not only comprised of extremely talented musicians and fronted by an intelligent, poetic MC, but they also bring a superior level of energy to everything they do. They had The Ottobar packed and rocking for their entire 45-minute set. When people weren’t dancing or nodding their heads, they were cheering in agreement with Eze’s lyrics. How often do you see an opening band cheered back onto the stage for an encore?

Most reviews I’ve read of the band speak to their Peabody training and the positive message they espouse. Obviously, these are important factors in what they do and are essential to their identity. What the reviews I’ve read fail to mention, however, is just how amazing their live show is. I’ve been to hundreds of shows over the years and it’s rare that I leave completely impressed with the show I’ve just seen. That’s how I felt driving home last night; even while those baselines were still dancing through my brain.

The thing I appreciate most about Soul Cannon’s songs is the honesty with which they are written. There’s never a chorus for the sake of a chorus or a hook just because that’s what hip hop songs are supposed to have. This is seen even more unmistakably in the lyrics. Eze’s words aren’t positive just because that’s what they should be. And even when he speaks of personal struggles or the problems affecting Baltimore, he does it in a way that is truthful and sincere, and without romanticizing or exploiting them.

If you were there last night, I’m sure you had just as much fun as I did. If not, make sure you come out and see these guys play. It will be well worth your time.