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Blackalicious

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Blackalicious performs "Powers"

If you take a listen to “Chemical Calisthenics” or “Alphabet Aerobics” by Blackalicious, it doesn’t take a high IQ to realize that emcee “Gift of Gab” was aptly named. Gab, or Tim Parker, is known for his ability to produce awe-inspiring, thoughtful rhymes in any tempo and is nothing short of an icon in hip-hop circles. Chief Xcel, the other member of the duo, produces the funky beats behind the scenes. The group’s last album, the experimental 2005 release The Craft, is a reflection of the group’s ambitious approach to hip-hop as it continues to delve deeper into the genre. Blackalicious, who hail from California’s Bay area, bring their heat to Buffalo just in time for the start of spring. Maybe they’re just what we need to jump-start the mercury into rising to where we all want it to be. For the group’s local show at The Icon, Blackalicious will be joined by several other West Coast acts, including the Cunninlynguists, Fat Lip of Pharcyde and Pigeon John.

Friday, March 31 at 7pm. The Buffalo Icon, 391 Ellicott St. (842-0167) $14-$16.