RUDIMENTAL IN CONCERT!: A Force of Musical Reckoning

RUDIMENTAL!!!!! That is how their name should be written from here on out – no lower cases and at least five exclamations points. Why with such excitement? Because every once in a while the force that is music is embodied by an act. Suddenly, you remember that music is an intangible energy inside an artist that can be witnessed by others but not copied. RUDIMENTAL!!!!! is a perfect example of music being a force to be reckoned with and embodied.

Rudimental are pure energy and power. They approach the stage with such a sense of life that they are not doing a “live” set but an alive one. The passion and abundance they offer to their fans bring out your own energy, as well. You become as open and as forceful as they are. They leap and dance across the stage without any care like a pack of fun carriers making sure that joy remains consistent and received. They are always moving around, which not only gives their performance a frenetic, electric vibe, but also makes them seem more full on the stage. Not packed: full. They are full because no matter how big the stage is, they fill it with freed vibrancy. It is that type of liberation that makes them a great closing act, and a perfect one for the open air of Summerstage.

Rudimental is the essential big stadium, summer/outdoor act. Their DJ set is too larger than life to be contained in a small space, just as music essentially is. Thus, the openness of the Summerstage arena echoed the openness of these performers. They played songs from their newest album We The Generation, which encapsulates their unique style: quick smoothness.

When you hear Rudimental, they sound like quick, funky jazz. This may sound like an odd comparison or analogy, but you will understand once you hear their music. “Love Ain’t Just A Word” is one of the coolest tracks they have released. It sounds like the sweetness of ice cream melting in your mouth. “We The Generation” is an empowering song. It motivates their anthemic essence as a group. Their inclusion of trumpets, soulful voices, and bluesy drumming gives their dance mix the heartfelt vibe that jazz offers. While jazz asks questions like, “Why do I exist?” Rudimental reminds you of the reason with their performance: to be happy.

I always get sentimental when I see happiness in a mass crowd. Life is not always easy, but Rudimental gives you a better moment. I can’t reiterate enough that they embody musical power. If you want a surreally fun time, then go see them. You will be so involved in the wonderful moment they offer that you will forget every bad moment of your day up until their concert.

Running Time: 1 hour

Rudimental played Summerstage on May 18, 2016, and it was epically good. Their newest album We The Generation is a must-buy for those times when you need a break from sad songs and sad days. They truly promote happiness. For more information on upcoming Summerstage events, click here.