L.A. Symphony and Real Life Dialect

Active for almost ten years, L.A. Symphony comprises a core of five MCs backed by a rotating cast of DJs and producers. Despite the group's geographical origins, tales of lowriders and pimps are eschewed in favor of a more intellectual approach. Still, Los Angeles's cultural legacy permeates every song. The beats' underlying funk flavor stamps L.A. Symphony's sound with the classic blunted feel of anything West Coast. Even the title of the group's 2005 sophomore album, Disappear Here and, more pointedly, its track "Less than Zero" reference Bret Easton Ellis's novel of the same name. Also performing is Real Life Dialect, hailing from Fort Lauderdale and lately the warm-up act of choice for area stops by touring underground acts. MCs IST, Cynic, and Lex One trade impressively controlled flows over soulful yet aggressive beats peppered with horn stabs, strings, and vocal samples. This appearance celebrates the independent release of their debut album, Think Outside the Blocks. A slew of additional local MCs and beat wizards also takes the newly revamped stage at Bullfrog Eatz, an unpretentious restaurant and lounge that is quickly becoming a hot spot for left-of-the-dial musical events.