Libretto

While New York heads moan about a lack of solid indie-rap fare this year, West Coast acts such as Blackalicious's Gift of Gab and the Shapeshifters continue to bang out hits for anyone who'll listen. Next in line is Libretto, a member of Portland, Oregon's Misfit Massive; his debut, Il-oet, is like a superior follow-up to that crew's debut entry last year, Lifesavas' Spirit in Stone. There's funk bangers ("Show Me Love"), life affirmations ("Last Drop"), and underground jams ("Dirty Thangs") that should even get the stiffest backpacker open. You know how the Westside gets down, East Coasters; now it's time to appreciate.

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• Blackalicious
• Portland (Oregon)
• Outdoor Recreation
• Hiking and Backpacking