[CONCERT RECAP] EPIK HIGH Raises the Bar in Seattle on ‘THE PUMP’ North America Tour 2024

From forgotten lyrics to giving 200%, EPIK HIGH delivered an unforgettable present in Seattle.

The long-lasting South Korean hip-hop trio EPIK HIGH introduced their explosive power to Seattle on the second evening of their ‘THE PUMP’ North America Tour 2024, delivering a efficiency that left followers exhilarated and craving extra. Because the group’s fourth go to to the Emerald Metropolis since 2019, this live performance showcased EPIK HIGH’s development, each of their stage presence and their deep reference to their viewers.

The night started with an enticing pre-show expertise. Followers have been handled to an on-screen video quiz that warmed up the gang and set an interactive tone for the evening. This entertaining prelude constructed anticipation and created a buzz within the venue even earlier than EPIK HIGH took the stage. Throughout this quiz, the viewers bought their first glimpse of EPIK HIGH’s spectacular stage evolution. The quiz revealed a extra seamlessly built-in LED display screen backdrop that merged with DJ Tukutz’s expanded DJ setup. This primary have a look at the improved manufacturing worth created a buzz of pleasure all through the venue, demonstrating the group’s dedication to elevating their stay performances with every tour. This enhanced manufacturing worth created a buzz of anticipation, making certain the viewers was primed for an auditory and visible feast.

The trio burst onto the stage with “ANTI-HERO,” a hard-hitting monitor from their newest mixtape ‘PUMP,’ instantly electrifying the environment. What adopted was a rigorously curated setlist that spanned their spectacular discography, together with fan favorites like “Fly,” “No Thanxxx,” and “Rosario,” alongside newer hits resembling “LATE CHECKOUT” and “Ok-DRAMA.”

From the outset, it was clear that EPIK HIGH was decided to make this evening unforgettable. DJ Tukutz set the bar excessive, promising the gang he would give 200% to his efficiency. True to the group’s collaborative spirit, Tablo rallied the viewers to make sure DJ Tukutz saved his phrase, creating an electrical environment of mutual power and enthusiasm. This synergy between the performers and their followers peaked throughout the efficiency of “ONE,” when DJ Tukutz, caught up within the second, jumped down from the stage to sing from the barricade. This spontaneous act of intimacy exemplified EPIK HIGH’s dedication to breaking down obstacles between artist and viewers, actually and figuratively.

One of many evening’s most memorable moments got here throughout the efficiency of their traditional monitor “Fly.” Tablo, identified for his fast wit and candid interactions with followers, shared an unprecedented incidence. A bunch of enthusiastic followers vigorously waving their official Park Gyu Bong lightsticks managed to throw the veteran rapper off his sport, inflicting him to overlook the lyrics momentarily. This endearing mishap highlighted the real connection between EPIK HIGH and their followers, with Tablo admitting, “We made these, however I’m nonetheless not used to it.”

The stage setup not solely supplied a visible improve but additionally supplied new efficiency prospects. A notable addition was the set of stairs built-in into the DJ space. This intelligent design aspect allowed Mithra Jin and Tablo to make the most of the elevated house, including depth to their efficiency and making certain each fan had a transparent view of the motion. All through the evening, the members took full benefit of this function, creating dynamic stage actions that saved the power excessive and the viewers engaged.

The live performance reached new heights of viewers engagement when Mithra Jin and Tablo left the stage to carry out from the barricade. In a second of pure EPIK HIGH appeal, Tablo noticed a fan consuming dinner and, with out lacking a beat, grabbed their plate and paraded it by the gang to the again of the venue. This impromptu meals supply service showcased the group’s distinctive method to fan interplay. As Tablo put it, “There’s fan service, after which there’s EPIK HIGH fan service.”

Whereas Mithra Jin labored the entrance rows, Tablo made his strategy to the venue’s stairs close to the entrance bar, grabbing followers’ telephones to take selfies and sing instantly into their cameras. This stage of intimacy and spontaneity is a trademark of EPIK HIGH’s performances, creating unforgettable reminiscences for fortunate attendees.

To not be outdone, DJ Tukutz stepped out from behind his decks to showcase his spectacular dance strikes, rivaling skilled break dancers and including one other layer of leisure to the already dynamic present.

The power within the venue was palpable, with Tablo declaring, “What a loopy evening in Seattle. We’re simply going with the circulate.” This sentiment was echoed by Mithra Jin, who confidently said, “I can confidently say this was one of the best present of the yr.” The trio’s enthusiasm was infectious, elevating the live performance from a mere efficiency to a shared expertise between artists and followers.

As the primary set drew to an in depth, the gang’s fervor solely intensified, calling EPIK HIGH again for an encore. The group obliged with powerhouse performances of “Born Hater” and “Don’t Hate Me,” leaving every thing on the stage and cementing the evening as really unforgettable.

In a bittersweet second, Tablo hinted at future plans that may delay their subsequent tour. Whereas EPIK HIGH has constantly returned to tour virtually yearly for the reason that pandemic, he steered that their subsequent go to would possibly take a bit longer. Tablo teased that the group is pursuing one other lifelong dream collectively, promising extra bulletins to return. This revelation left followers each excited for the group’s future endeavors and keen for his or her eventual return.

EPIK HIGH’s Seattle cease on ‘THE PUMP’ North America Tour 2024 was greater than only a live performance; it was a testomony to the group’s enduring attraction and their capacity to consistently evolve whereas sustaining the core parts which have made them legends within the Korean hip-hop scene. From their enhanced stage manufacturing to their unparalleled fan interplay, EPIK HIGH demonstrated why they continue to be on the forefront of the style after 20 years.

Because the evening got here to an in depth, with the ultimate notes of “Don’t Hate Me” fading away, the sentiment within the venue was clear: this wasn’t simply one other cease on tour however a historic evening that Seattle followers would keep in mind for years to return. EPIK HIGH as soon as once more proved that their stay performances are an expertise unto themselves, mixing music, humor, and real connection in a method that few artists can match.

*Particular because of AEG Presents for the media invite.