When it comes to hip hop music, creative experimentation can either be a beautiful exploration in new sounds, or a tragic attempt at expanding mass appeal. Taking such horizon-broadening risks, a group usually either wants to sell out their style to the pop generation hypnotized by MTV (i.e. Black Eyed Peas), or they are simply tired of being confined to the parameters set by their initial success (i.e. Common). For 7L and Esoteric, the tag team duo hailing from Boston, this pivotal stage in their musical journey has come to fruition on their newest release, A New Dope (Baby Grande).
Breaking away from the golden era style of boom bap beats and battle raps, 7L and Esoteric experiment with synth-heavy, Kraftwerk-inspired beats and spacy verses on A New Dope. “We were a little burnt out, doing the same thing for so long,” 7L explains. “We had had it up to our necks with what we were doing,” agrees Esoteric. And they don’t give two shits what people think. Truly opened-minded, eclectic listeners will appreciate this gem for the innovative direction these cats are taking this time around.
But experiencing new music should really be done on an individual basis, free from outside critique and pre-disposed opinions. Luckily for heads in the Illadelph, they will get that chance this Thursday, September 7th at The 5 Spot (5 S. Bank St. in Old City, Phila.) when 7L spins as the special guest at “No Excuse Thursdays,” presented by 215hiphop.com. Resident DJs Tactics and Cru-Cut will get the party started with hip hop, reggae, and r&b while host MC Elixer keeps things movin’ throughout the night. The party is from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. with a $10 cover for open bar from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m.; $5 cover after 12 a.m. For more information, visit 215hiphop.com or 7l-esoteric.com. 
Loading ...
