Wale

D.C. Showcase

Scoot Inn

Like the transient nature of the Capital District itself, the D.C. showcase demonstrates revolving door range. Central focus throughout the 15-act run is hip-hop and down-tempo electro, particularly the brands embodied by both the Ski Beatz and Ninja Tune rosters of the last decade. Proof of the former manifests in the Togoan national Tabi Bonney, son of Afro-funkist Itadi Bonney, a performer at Bill Clinton’s inauguration. Scion’s 2012 album The Summer Years slams like vintage Consequence. Nigerian-born Mannywellz harps almost Caribbean, while down-tempo synth duo Tigers Are Bad for Horses give off a distinct Bonobian hue – if the British producer had singer Mary Ellen Funke at his disposal. Further out on hip-hop’s beltway, Bowie (Maryland) baysock Jay IDK blenders trap music on last year’s SubTrap. He’ll coalesce well with Visto, whose recent single “Hippie Holiday” will have Texans thinking Devin the Dude. President Obama’s jam Wale headlines. Considering June 2015 mega-hit “Weight in Gold,” the Prince-harking Gallant may be next. Then there’s Go Cozy, Young Rapids, and Maggie Rose – shoegazers, scrag-haired rockers, and a blond country crooner. Only in D.C. – and SXSW.

This article appears in March 11 • 2016.

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