By Adam Simon
The Insane Clown Posse (ICP) has stormed its way through the windy streets of Chicago and once again left a trail of Faygo and face paint from here to Detroit. Several thousand gallons of soda later (not to mention buckets of confetti), fans are no doubt anxiously awaiting the next visit.
For those who may be curious or unaware of the phenomenon of ICP, a little background shall be provided: In the early 90's, friends and Detroit residents Joseph Bruce (Violent J) and Joseph Utsler (Shaggy 2 Dope) started up a street gang with their neighborhood cohorts named the "Inner City Posse". It suffered a short existence due to threats from established gangs in the area, but it also paved the way for Shaggy and J to have their wildest, most twisted dreams realized. Here in 2003, ICP have already achieved icon status with a strong list of accomplishments including (but not limited to) the longest running hip-hop/rap album in Billboard history ( The Great Milenko , 1997), a self-founded record label (Psychopathic Records), their own wrestling federation (Juggalo Championsh*t Wrestling), a massively successful line of their own merchandise, worldwide touring, and a dedicated fan-base over one million wide and spreading. In fact, ICP has such a strong following that since 2000 an annual event known as the "Gathering of the Juggalos" has taken place. It serves not only as a testament to the fans' devotion but also as a paradigmatic example of the consummation that exists in the relationship between ICP and their followers.
On Devil's Night, 2003, ICP kept the faith alive by delivering yet another stellar performance of "The Wicked Wonka Tour" in the cozy confines of the Riviera Theatre. The overall presentation was well coordinated and highly professional, but the vibe created that night between performers and audience was where ICP truly succeeded. From the moment the curtains made their glorious ascent to the soda-drenching finale, every hand in sight was held high and proud. Over the course of the set, various characters made appearances in full costume to assist Shaggy and J in soaking the crowd with a seemingly endless supply of Faygo soda pop. The most amusing of these were a pair of groovin' zombies and a trio of Oompa-Loompas. Other characters to appear included a wicked rag-doll, a giant teddy bear, a clockwork knight of some sort (least amusing), an alien-like Boogyman, and two helper clowns (to replenish the Faygo supply). Little time was wasted between each song and all were met with unanimous approval. An elaborate stage design (pipes, bricks, vents, rails, platforms, etc.) along with excellent lighting and crisp sound rounded out a truly great evening.
ICP have reached an apex in their career, so it's difficult to imagine them delivering a bad show. They know what their fans want, they know how to give it to them, and they have all the necessary means to do so. With all the time, money, and organization put into the preparation and execution of these events, fans are guaranteed a spectacle well worth the cost of admission.
