Though you might be tempted to spend your Halloween at one of those Banana Jam Boat plays the hits of INXS-type shows, might we suggest some straight-up, intelligent, fun hip-hop at Middle East Downstairs this Sunday night?
We've had our eye on Canadian rapper Shad since he earned a 2008 Polaris Prize nomination for The Old Prince. "Compromise," from that stellar album, introduced us to a self-aware, down-to-earth artist who somehow finds a way to naturally address bad first drafts, confusing tax forms and God's call to serve the poor in just one song. Like KRS-One and Common, his flow is a thoughtful conversation, meandering from one subject to another, but tying them back to a simple, salient point. "Shad just don't compromise." Call 'em the David Foster Wallace of hip-hop.
Play videoWith yet another Polaris nomination for his latest release TSOL, we hope hip-hop fans in the States give him the kind of attention he deserves.
Check out his video for "Yaa I Get It" and a remix below.
Play videoShad hits the Middle East Downstairs this Sunday, October 31st as part of his tour with K-Os. Doors at 8pm. Come on out. You won't be disappointed.