In a city more known for its Noise and Punk, it makes sense that hip-hop of such an elevated and noise-centric tone coagulates from the potion of the local scene. Immigrants utilize absurdist lyrics, free-associated and abstract, with production that’s way passed left-of-center. Producer Mr. Id weaves layers of freaky samples over groovy beats, that must stretch MC Theory Engine to his limits. That’s the only way I can explain Theory’s insanity.  He loads his lyrics with scientific jargon, summoning his inner Dr. Octogon, but his flow is a lazy Doom-esque lilt. I recommend checking out the whole record, but “Ding!” was onef of my personal favorites, with a beat that’s too damn slow in the best way, and lyrics from the mind of mad scientist. Their energy seemed to be bursting out of that little venue, so I can’t wait to see them upgrade and tear up a bigger spot.

Check out their Ablum “Black Dada” here. 

-Paul Jordan Talbot

Remember what it felt like to discover dope hip-hop? The ominous tones this track open with immediately captivate the listener's attention, leaving us wondering what's coming next. Featuring dope production by Flying Lotus, Saturday Samurais transform "Wavey" into a smooth, hip-hop masterpiece. With lyrics floating easily over intricately sampled production, we're introduced to their carefully constructed sound. Their flow reminds me of elements of Mos Def and Q-tip, bringing hip-hop back to a place of story-telling as the song explores the definition of "Wavey" according to Saturday Samurais. Press play and get lost in this cool collaboration. --Opal Rose

DC's Opal Rose recently teamed up with Triple Threat to create a fantastic electro-RnB cover of the jazz classic "Strange Fruit" (on Brave New Breed). The two are developing a sound they're calling "Doom&B," and the track is an epic journey. A run through jungle drums launches the vocal to flight over the canopy of rainforest instruments and insects. I get the impression Opal has emerged from some ancient haunted psychadelic pyramid. And I love the ending, hinting at a space launch, easing the listener into oblivion. Look for more from Opal and her collaborators in the comming months. --Natan Press

I first became aware of Virginia based artist Dannie in August of this year with her first single, Girls Time. Dannie is a strong vocalist, one of the few singers that are still breathing life into what I'll label pure R&B. Her second single, Wait 4 It was released on October 14th and has been doing well since that date with over 80,000 plays on Soundcloud. This sexy track highlights strong harmonies interlaced with smooth melodies that are sure to be caught in your head after first the listen. Wait 4 It tells the story of a playful seductress keeping her potential lover on his toes to the point of full desire. The track used properly accompanies the concept of this song and reminds me of what a slow jam is supposed to sound like. Emotion is clearly felt within the vocals of this track as Dannie flirtatiously explores her full range and leaves the listener yearning for more by the time they realize that the song has ended. --Opal Rose

Snippets of red ballons, party-goers, and a cosmic sky splice the images of a sullen girl singing “… she just wanna party” in Noleac Yasin’s latest music video for “Par.T.” DJ and producer, Devyn Symone, says Noleac Yahsin is a joint effort between her and singer/songwriter Caelon Reed. “When I’m creating beats, whatever flows out of [Reed’s] mouth, goes on the track. Whatever we both like.” That’s why the pair choose not categorize themselves into any particular genre. Influenced by Timbaland, James Blake, and Amy Winehouse, the duo create neyo-soul rhythms, interposed by driving trap lines, all under alluring, relaxed vocals in the latest single. “Par.T” tells the story of Reed in the aftermath of a break-up, looking to find peace in others, and finally finding it in herself. “Par.T” can be heard on Noleac Yahsin’s forthcoming mixtape, Maktub, to be released November 11th. For now, get hooked on the indie-esque music video for “Par.T” below. –Sade A. Spence