RJD2‘s stop in Chicago Saturday night at the Metro was part of his 50 city tour to promote his new album The Colossus, though you’d hardly know it. His passion for his music and visible love of performing pumped extra energy through the crowd who was with him the entire way. After the audience was energized by opening performances from Happy Chirchester and Break Science, RJ slipped onto the stage to help set up equipment.  The packed house instantly began cheering and catcalling upon sight of him. RJ acknowledged the crowd, establishing a symbiotic appreciation that continued the rest of the night.

Beginning the set, RJ first appeared on stage brandishing a welder’s helmet and bedazzled mechanic’s suit. Calling himself “Commissioner Crotchbuttons”, he performed what he called “nutsack symphony number one” on a drum machine strapped to his waist. His sense of humor and playful side revealed itself several times throughout the night. At one point, much to the crowd’s amusement, he stopped to play a game of Donkey Kong with sound effects from his drum machine and handheld plush toys.

All kidding aside, RJD2 showed that he’s a master on the decks, expertly blending trip hop, jazz, pop, hip hop, soul, and electronic elements in his tracks. Throughout his set, he flip-flopped between the turntables and playing bass with his band, showing that he enjoys performing with different mediums. Needless to say, he didn’t have a hard time connecting with the crowd: “God damn Chicago, it’s like you’re here to have a good time or something.”

By the time he got to the end of the set, closing with “The Horror” and “Ghostwriter”,  there was a palpable energy throughout the room. Returning for an encore, he was visibly stunned by the overwhelming applause and appreciation from the crowd as Chicago showed their gratitude. After the final song, he returned the favor by sitting on the edge of the stage, where he signed autographs, shook fans’ hands, and posed for pictures.

Nobody left disappointed. Even the set catered to fans, with a fair amount culled from his 2002 debut, Deadringer, as well as 2004′s Since We Last Spoke. With four albums in tow, it’s not like there’s a lack of variety, either. Altogether, the set proved to be a splendid showcase of his work, past, present, and future. And with their style continuing to evolve, who knows what tomorrow will bring. Color us excited.

Photography by Brad Bretz.