With the release date of their debut album nearing, audiences are getting pretty anxious to hear what supergroup August Greene has in store for listeners. Their two singles, "Optimistic" and "Black Kennedy," have given us a pretty good idea of the soundscape that we can expect. However, their recent stop at NPR Music's Tiny Desk Concert Series gives us even more insight into the project.
The three-man crew — consisting of Common, Robert Glasper and Karriem Riggins — added some extra hitters for the event, including DJ Dummy, singer Samora Pinderhughes and bass player Burniss Travis, to round out their sound. However, the all-male crew made sure to honor the ladies that rolled with them, with Common making sure to note that they were "foregrounding women" and allowing them a showcase for their talents. But before the female guests took the stage, the group first started with the mellow cut "Black Kennedy," setting the mood for what's to come. They then brought out rapper/singer Maimouna Youssef for their track "Practice," a slightly moody joint about the work we have to put in in order to effect change. Bubbly superstar Brandy was up next, bringing the energy of the crowd up with "Optimistic." The fun feel of the track was infectious, even inspiring Com to drop an off-the-dome freestyle about the moment just for the Tiny Desk audience. The female power didn't stop, as Com brought up Andra Day to perform their empowering song "Stand For Something," from the Marshall soundtrack. The soulful song drew lots of love from the crowd and had Common speaking Andra's praises. They closed out the set with another new track, "Let Go." After explaining that the song's sound was inspired by alternative rock group Nirvana, the fellas delivered the somber track as Samora Pinderhughes provided an emotional chorus that rubbed against Common's introspective verses.
After checking out this particular Tiny Desk appearance, we're certain you'll agree with us that August Greene's March 9th release date can't get here fast enough. Check it out in its entirety below.
