If you can’t make it to the Lyrics Born show on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 8 p.m., at the Lincoln Theatre, then you better get your momma to write a note. There is no reason to miss this show–along with DJ D-Sharp and Joyo Velarde, LB will be opening for Galactic (pictured above–a band that I know very little about, but I have only heard good things). Lyrics Born, aka Tom Shimura, was born in Tokyo but grew up in Bezerkely, Calif.–one of the last great cities. He met up with five other artists (DJ Shadow, Blackalicious, Lateef the Truth Speaker and DJ Zen), in Davis, Calif., where the crew was known for correctly using the college radio station, KDVS to expose and create cutting edge music. But the glories of college radio don’t really pay bills, thus the label Solesides was born, and released darn good music. Latyrex The Album (Lateef the Truth Speaker and LB)–which is still in demand–went on to move mad units and solidified Bay Area hip hop. With time, Solesides changed to Quannum Projects where LB continues to push the envelope. Currently, the emcee is finishing up his debut solo joint Later That Day. But you heard it here: LB’s stage show is on fire like a candle on the mantle fo’ shandal. On that note, do yourself a favor and check out Cali’s hip-hop icon Lyrics Born, along with Joyo Velarde and DJ D-Sharp. 126 E. Cabarrus St., Raleigh. 821-4111. Admission $20. –K8 Erwin
