All Swag & Blunts w/Ground Up at Union Transfer Nov. 14

It’s gonna be all swag and blunts at Union Transfer tonight. Temple University’s own Ground Up, who have been making beats since Freshman Orientation in 2008, produce the kind of pop-y hip hop (think Taylor Gang) that hardcore rappers are sometimes quick to dismiss. However, it’s not easy to write off the guys who have opened for the likes of Rick Ross, Meek Mill and Chiddy Bang, released an impressive nine mixtapes in just three years, collaborated with the likes of Action Bronson, and have their hands in their own clothing company, MDCCXI Cloth. The collective has some talented openers from across the country, like the ultra-cool Harrisburg-based rapper Mazon (who they’ve collaborated with for tracks like “I Remember” and “Filthy”) and MAVi & Christian Express, coming all the way in from Cali. Local battle rapper Rone is also slated on the bill. Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St., 8pm, $15, All Ages – Emily DiCicco