8:00 PM, 26th July, 2006
In a run-down Brooklyn neighbourhood, a block party is organised by much-loved American comedian Dave Chappelle (his show is seen here in Australia on SBS). Chappelle invites many hip-hop stars to perform, including Kanye West, Erykah Badu, Mos Def, The Roots and a one-off reunion of The Fugees.Michel Gondry (director of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) documents the organisation of the event as well as the party itself. Its a good diary allowing us insights into neighbourhood people from all walks of life, as well as giving us some great music to groove along to. (Does that last sentence make me sound old?) There are many cultural barriers broken down, as well as musical ones; one of the performers is a college marching band from Ohio.I'm not a huge fan of Dave Chappelle - I find his schtick humorous, but not hilarious - but I enjoyed the Block Party experience. Even if you're not a big hip-hop enthusiast, you should find something to enjoy here.
Travis Cragg