CMJ ’08 kicks off today in NYC and S.O.B.’s—the pantheon of hip-hop spots in the city—got it locked for the evening. Onstage tonight will be the roster of Allido Records, the label of Grammy-winning producer Mark Ronson. The Englishman brought along a couple compatriots for the show, including R&B singer Daniel Merriweather and jazzy rock band The Rumblestrips (British for “speedbumps”).
Undoubtedly, though, most in attendance will be at Varick St. to see DC go-hopper Wale. Working on his debut album alongside folks like Kanye and Pharrell, Wale might not be playing his trademark singles like “W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E.” at such intimate venues for long. Chi-town representa’ Rhymefest, is also certain to preview some cuts from El Che, his politically charged upcoming sophomore set.
With Wale and ‘Fest on the mic (possibly together trading verses for the banger “Ain’t Heard It From Me”) and Ronson also spinning, all tastes—hipster, purist, and club—are sure to be satiated.
-Devin Chanda
