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It Takes A Nation - 8/24/06
by Nick Brassbonanza

To celebrate the release of “It Takes A Nation: How Complete Strangers Became Family In The Wake of Hurricane Katrina,” a book documenting Hurricane Katrina and MoveOn.org’s Hurricane Housing program, a benefit concert was held at Crobar. Hosted by actress Rosie Perez, the night included dramatic readings from Perez, Julia Stiles and Black Thought of The Roots. Speakers flooded the stage throughout the night, including MoveOn.org founder Eli Pariser and new Democratic hopeful Ned Lamont. After the speeches and readings came the highlights of the night, the performances.

Moby was the first to perform. He took the stage with a small band and a female vocalist. Moby’s short set included hits such as “Honey,” and a dramatic version of “Natural Blues.” The songs took on an ominous tone and were far from the dancey, uplifting original versions.

The Roots were scheduled to hit the stage next. Beginning their show with a tribute to New Orleans, The Roots were joined by a seven piece brass band. Parading around the venue, banging on drums and cowbells, the horns echoed throughout the club as they made their way to the stage. The Roots played songs off of their new album, “Game Theory,” as well as their hit, “The Seed.” At the end of the set The Roots once again gave the stage to their friends. Known as Brass Heaven, the horn section played an original song and a cover of Ray Charles’ “I Got A Woman.”

Moby blogged about that too:

hi,
i just got back from the moveon/acorn event at crobar.
it was good.
the roots and i performed. julia stiles and rosie perez read from 'it takes a nation'.
money was raised.
all in all it was good.
i know it sounds simple, but i really love being able to play music.
making music is my job, but it's also my favorite thing about being alive.
that's all.
i know it's simple, but it's true.
thanks to everyone who came out tonight.
hopefully you all enjoyed yourselves while supporting a good cause and organization.
thanks
moby

RELATED: Hollywood Marks Katrina Anniversary

Previously
The Roots, Moby, Rosie Perez & others performing @ Katrina-related MoveOn event @ Crobar
The Roots & Talib Kweli @ Webster Hall, NYC | pics
Flipper, Moby & Steve Buscemi @ Stereo, NYC | pics