Onward hip hop soldiers

I spent the last two columns focused on Jazz Fest shows, so I suppose it would be cheap not to mention some personal highlights. The Bell Groove stage became a favourite haunt, and I wanna tip this oversized black cap to two performers who completely merked it up there. The Narcicyst has always been dope, but in the past couple of years his stage presence has become defined by true star quality, which he exhibited to the masses backed by a live band featuring players from Nomadic Massive, memorably inviting LA.’s Omar Offendum up for a wide-scale Montreal debut. Well done, folks.

Minnesota’s Dessa, co-founder of indie rap label Doomtree, turned it out in sultry style on the same stage a few days later, with chilling soul chops and her sick flow. Backed by a tuxedoed trio as at ease with lounge-y jazz riffs as they were with hardcore punk interludes, the foursome created together an intense atmosphere further coloured by the windy, cloudy late-evening sky. As free shows go, Dessa’s hour on stage was priceless.

I saw a dozen other crazy concerts but was obviously disappointed by the unexplained and lame last-minute cancellation by Rakim. It won’t quite make up for it to this head, but Friday, July 9, another legend rolls into town to play an intimate set at Petit Campus. Def Squad member and certified playa Keith Murray is joined by Mr. Wellz, North Stars, Souly Track, Njel, Fatty Soprano, Chris Taylor and Brotherhood Boiz. Drink lots of fluids because that’s gonna get steamy.

Kalmunity invite the Extremities to their Organic Live Improv weekly this Tuesday, July 13, at le Consulat (see p.13 for interview). Currently touring the east to promote their upcoming record Mint Condition, the pair are also bringing along buzzed-about Haligonian rap duo Magnolius and up-and-comer Ambition, whose mixtape K.R.E.A.M. (put together by the Extremities’ Uncle Fester) is the straight goods.

ENJOY YOURSELF. IT’S LATER THAN YOU THINK...
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