Stunt Rap

Few hip-hop outfits can pull off the high-flying balancing act that the Rootshave maintained since their early-'90s inception. Way above its peers and imitators, the Philly collective walks a tightrope between street cred and pop appeal, intellectualism and b-boyism, jazzy musicianship and rugged MC mastery. Through the course of six albums, the Roots have solidified their standing as one of hip-hop's most consistently progressive, creative, and talented groups, but like the best musical daredevils, they really shine under the spotlights. Their last visit to Revolution went like hip-hop karaoke, mixing covers and originals in a two-hour-long medley funkathon. Having such a heavy-hitting act in Lauderdale for New Year's should bring out the crazies in the crowd; no doubt it'll bring out the best in the band as well.

The Roots will perform with a special opening DJ session from Roots drummer ?uestlove at 9 p.m. Saturday, December 31, at Revolution, 200 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. Tickets cost $70 and include an open bar from 9 to 10 p.m. and a champagne toast at midnight. Call 954-727-0950.