Mike Kuhlman

The Federation

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Hyphy made a triumphant return to Santa Barbara this past Friday. Following in the footsteps of Bay Area acts such as Andre Nickatina and Keak da Sneak, the Federation performed at UCSB’s Storke Plaza to a crowd of approximately 1500. Bay Area rap has had a long tradition of doing well at UCSB, probably because it makes for the perfect party music. And that’s exactly what the Federation’s concert was; a dance party. The crowd picked up on the vibe instantly and did not stop moving until the last song was played. Opener D.J., Stephan started off the night right, keeping his set filled with with “Yay Area” classics like “Tell Me When to Go.” While rap group T.O.P. Mi$$ion kept the party going by not only representing for the Bay, but also UCSB’s Santa Rosa dorms, where they met and formed.

By 10:20pm the crowd was ready to (in the words of the Federation) “go dumb.” While the group took the stage 20 minutes late, they more than made up for their tardiness in their performance. Formed by members Doonie Baby, Goldie, and Stresmatic and producer Rick Rock, the Federation found success when their “hyphy” sound took off a couple of years ago. The crowd may have been smaller than past Storke Plaza shows, but the energy was just as high, and the Federation did more than their part to keep it up. Stereotypes did present themselves, as the group called for “hoes” from the crowd to come up and dance onstage. But it went both ways, as one shirtless bandmember was repeatedly groped by female fans every time he ventured into the crowd. Regardless, the dancing and area code shout outs remained constant thoughout the set. The group ended with their hits “I Wear My Stunna Glasses at Night” and “Hyphy,” prompting a sing-along that left the crowd wanting more.

To be honest, Friday night’s party was not the best show UCSB has seen. But short set changes and an energetic crowd could lead many to think otherwise. As Federation member Go-Go said when asked what he thought of the show and crowd, “Tell them it was super dope!”

Stephanie Skidmore is an Independent intern.

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