Orlando isn't necessarily known for hip-hop. Though definitely the breakbeat capital of the state, O-Town doesn't get much credit for anything else. So it's good to know a hip-hop crew like
Sol.illaquists of Sound exists. If you are not familiar with Sol.illa, think De La Soul-style wordplay with the stage charisma of Digable Planets. The group is multiracial and pangendered, and it shows in its music. So in addition to rapping, there's plenty of singing and harmonizing to break up the monotony of the typical 16 bars associated with hip-hop. Swamburger, the group's MC, keeps it conscious, and if you don't mind a small hippie vibe creeping into your hip-hop, then Sol.illa won't let you down. The group is a blast to see live, and DiViNCi, the group's DJ, is known to get on stage with three MPC players and program beats from scratch. If that type of beat-making strategy sounds daunting ahead of time, go see it live to really be impressed.
Sol.illaquists of Sound performs Thursday, February 1, at Respectable Street, 518 Clematis St., West Palm Beach. Also performing are Brokensound Blvd, Dee Dubs & Jabrjaw, and Clever Rev. The show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $8. Visit www.respectablestreet.com.