A concept concert, Hero2Hero sees musicians metaphorically passing the microphone to an act that has inspired them in some way. So it's an overdue tribute to hip-hop's oft-overlooked old-school artists that the evening concludes with Big Daddy Kane, an enigmatic 1980s MC who proves a worthy headliner.

Hosted by DJ Clark Kent, soul singer Rell opens the show, followed 15 minutes later by fledgling singer Nicole Wray. Kent's deft turntable tricks excite the audience far more than either insipid performer, who wander about stiffly, seemingly acutely aware of the crowd's disinterest.

Neither should be too concerned, though, for this is a hip-hop gathering hungry for rhymes, not R&B. Thankfully, the successive set satiates the appetite slightly. Formerly one half of Capone N Noreaga, the Chardonnay swigging N.O.R.E brings to the stage some sizable hits and palpable energy. The Neptunes-produced Superthug immediately raises energy levels, while a flurry of hands and fists pump to Nothin'.

But even the ellipsis of Niggas On the Run Eating is no match for the apoplectic acronym that is King Asiatic Nobody's Equal. From the bristling boasts of Raw to the testosterone-charged Ain't No Half-Steppin, Kane's commanding cadence and quips make for a powerful performance. He may have gained a paunch since his 1988 heyday, but the New York rapper controls his breath as easily as he does the crowd. They rhyme along rapturously, eyes following every move, whether he struts about the stage to Warm It Up, Kane or during an impromptu lunge into the auditorium for the furious restrains of Wrath of Kane.

It is apparent how polished Kane is when the rest of the line-up slope on stage to finish proceedings. As Rell haplessly attempts to freestyle and N.O.R.E looks lost, Kane bows out quietly with a dignified nod.

Not a competition as such, but tonight proves that while the new kids may have the hot hits, they're no match for their elders.