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Shad K‘s early-afternoon performance was impressive for entirely different reasons. The diversity of his ensemble (beat boxer Xplisit, Brownman Ali on horns, DJ TLO and live drummer and bassist) and Shad’s inimitable wit and lyrical gifts delighted the audience.
From Shad K’s insertion of Run-DMC’s Down With The King into his own I Get Down jam to DJ TLO’s ambitious turntablism skit incorporating N.E.R.D.’s Spazz, there was no lack of creativity onstage during the 40-minute journey.
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And the finals for the B-Boy Pop Lock And Load showcase featured a two-hour clinic into the depths of the phenomenal b-boy energy Toronto has to offer. Hosted by Bag of Trix founder Benzo and b-boy legend Heist 1, a three-on-three throwdown for $1,500 continued from after Saturday afternoon. DJ’s Kae Wonder and Serious provided the funk, while crews like Twisted Ankles, the Rude Boy Posse, Maximum Efficiency and Floor Assassins competed furiously with a dazzling array of improbable body movements.
After a long, controversial series, the choreographed-routine-heavy Fresh African Males danced away victorious. Much respect to Benzo, Heist 1 and everyone who participated for highlighting the value and vitality of Toronto’s hip-hop cultural scene.
