Detroit’s 555 Gallery conducted an experiment. The question? “What do you get when you bring together 50 fly folks, 5 pounds of seasoned ground beef, and the best underground hip hop Detroit has to offer?” The unequivocal conclusion was, “A good ass time”, but to be a bit more accurate, you get 555 Live.
The unconventional gallery, situated within the remnants of what was unmistakably an abandoned middle school, was the perfect backdrop for an event of this caliber. With artistic offerings donning every surface and the vibrating baseline weaving its way through the surroundings, the experience itself was wholly reminiscent of the city that birthed it. Even the hometown cuisine, provided by $2 Dollar Tacos, radiated the scintillating flavor of Detroit’s Mexican Town.
The musical talent was equally impressive. Backed by a skillful DJ, a host of seasoned MC’s took to the stage. Detroit Hip Hop veterans, Cold Men Young, performed a combo of new music and old favorites, thoroughly pleasing the crowd. The comical rap trio, Detroit CYDI, brought jokes with their ever-changing crowd favorite, “Yeah, Bitch”. Even the audience members were allowed to participate in the action, springing into an impromptu freestyle battle.
The irrevocable highlight of the night was, Clear Soul Forces. This hip-hop outfit (Illajide, L.A.Z., E-Fav and Noveliss) is comprised of four men blessed with the ability to deliver thought provoking lyricism and a distinctly different sound than anything playing on your local radio. The crew performed several selections from their new project, Detroit Revolutions, armed with the unwavering confidence, energy and (dare I say it) swagger of absolutely seasoned professionals. With dozens of venues under their belt, including the SXSW and AC3 music festivals, Clear Soul Forces are most definitely a force to be reckoned with.
More than discovering the ingredients for a good ass time, 555 Gallery provided conclusive evidence for the following thesis statement: “Detroit should not be slept on”. Artistically, musically, and lyrically, we are not proving that Detroit is making a comeback--we’re stating that Detroit never left.
Penned by Kimber Bowman
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