Since making the move from Philly and calling New York home, The Roots have been the hardest working band in the Big Apple between filming for Jimmy Fallon, ?uest’s DJ residency, various concerts, and of course, their new residency at Highline Ballroom. On 04.06.09 The Roots presented their fourth installment of ‘The Jam’ at Highline Ballroom. More photos inside with a complete recap from writer and beatmaker dRes.

Other upcoming residency dates include 04.21.09, 04.29.09, 05.13.09, 05.18.09, & 05.26.09.

Monday, April 6th was definitely not a traditional Roots “show,” but a loose vibe pervaded jam session at Highline Ballroom. The varied set began with a few Roots “remixes” including ‘Rock You’ combined with ‘Web.’ Truck North and Dice Raw, two frequent Roots affiliates took their turns on the mic as well. The theme of updated catalogue was prevalent throughout the night and included a new version of ‘Dont See Us’ and ‘Table of Contents.’ Other guests included New York natives Blitz the Ambassador and Joell Ortiz who came out and spit some flames, especially the acapella numbered jawn. Black Thought was basically MC for the night but seemed to have a verse with every guest that came out and threw in some new shit to go with the old. After Blitz, The Roots rolled out singers including up and coming talent Jesse Boykins the Third. I couldn’t help but laugh when Thought kept emphasizing he was the third, but Mr. Boykins the Third is truly a talent to watch out for. The highlight of the night was ‘Respond, React’ over the Night Rider beat; true menacing dopeness. Following the Third, an older singer Andy Beng (or Ben?) joined them. Although many were not familiar with him, he won the crowd over quickly as his old soul vibe hit just right with the music backing him. On that note, the musicians kept rotating with the horn section of members from Antibalas and different musicians on guitar, each doing their thing and smoothly fitting in with the overall ‘Jam’ vibe. All in all the musicians were on point and ‘The Jam’ was certainly fun times and I definitely got my $10 worth. Note that it’s not a Roots concert, but a Jam session, so expect good music and vibes; nothing more.