Ninety degree temps fit perfectly with the tropical rap-rock sounds of Planet Hemp, Brazil's leading pro-marijuana band, who played at New York's SummerStage on Saturday.
Formed by rappers Marcelo D2 and Skunk in 1993, Planet Hemp initially were dogged by the government due to their open support of marijuana ("maconha" in Portuguese) legalization. "Their records have been apprehended, the band's members incarcerated, their shows canceled and the group is frequently a part of the national news," AllMusic reports.
The band took their name from an ad they saw in High Times for a Canadian clothing line. Ironically, High Times opened a store called Planet Hemp in 1996.
Skunk died in 1994 and was replaced by BNegão. The rappers are backed by guitarist Rafael, bassist Formigão and drummer Pedrinho.
The band took full advantage of the large video screen behind the screen, displaying a variety of messages, animation (one featured Cheech & Chong), marijuana depictions and protests. Gaby Amarantos and Emicida opened for Planet Hemp. DJ Greg Caz filled in between sets. The show kicked off the city's Brasil Summerfest, which runs through July 28.
