In Zac Efron’s most recent cinematic flop, playing a struggling DJ in the California valley, he desperately networks and fist pumps (in a profoundly uncomfortable manner, I should add) while trying to break into the competitive LA music scene. I must confess I have avoided watching the full film, but in the various trailers that I have seen, it becomes clear that his “breakthrough” is catalyzed by a journey into the “real world” to find our “everyday sonic palette” (not real quotes, I hope). This idea, no matter how poorly depicted in this movie, of utilizing “street sounds” to merge in the studio with the listener and complicate genre, adding nuance, is a necessary evolution in modern music. Philly-based hip-hop producer, Mr. Green has taken this idea to the extreme. On his latest album, Live From The Streets, he traveled the world to find the best street performers and most interesting sounds for production elements. The results are hip-hop tracks that reflect a proverbial sonic melting pot – a composition focused on innovation and true artistry. Catch his sonic wizardy tonight when he opens for Philly hip-hop stalwarts Jedi Mind Tricks and R.A. The Rugged Man! The Trocadero, 1003 Arch St., 7pm, $20-$22, All Ages – Blake Oetting
