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The word “showcase” shall get shelved indefinitely after its annual 10 days of SXSW-induced notoriety. So, let’s call Empire’s two hip-hop shows this weekend an unofficially intertwined platform for a multitude of underground MCs in the Austin and San Antonio areas. Friday’s show, hosted by rapper/producer Hellcat!, homes in on lyrical prowess and lo-fi sonics emanating from both aforementioned cities while Saturday features an all-512 lineup. Friday, Naalah of SATX shines with unashamed confessions over weeping strings on “Manic Maniac.” Locals on the weekend kickoff bill include laid-back rhymer Blakchyl, Censored Dialogue, and Khxnid!, who finally tells us how to address him in latest single “whatsforme?” Ben Buck paces affairs on the 1s and 2s.

Like bat meat brisket tacos, FuckEmos are a celebrated local delicacy that have been closely guarded from outsiders for three decades. Sludge rock with vocals pitch-shifted hellward, the Russell Porter-led project has thrived on anthems that can be unfathomably depraved, bizarrely left field, or, on occasion, strangely innocent. Classic albums Can Kill You (1994) and Lifestyles of the Drugged and Homeless (1995) document the weirdest rock from an era when people could freely buy Rohypnol to use on themselves. Speaking of Nineties Austin, John Motard – a variation of garage punk favorites the Motards – also appears after Porter’s dance rock consortium Sex Pümp.

Currently on tour with Hayes Carll, the vintage-sounding Arkansas transplant sweeps through the Greater Austin area for two dates. (Saturday’s show at New Braunfels staple Gruene Hall has already sold out.)