Mass Mvmnt Makes Midweek Merriment

There's nothing like a lack of information to build curiosity and suspense. Local label/collective Mass Mvmnt (read "Mass Movement") has taken that approach very much to heart, with only a trickle of information being released over the last year. The veil of secrecy is being removed tonight however, with a showcase at the War Room featuring almost their entire roster in celebration of new releases by FCS North and Time Promises Power.

So why all the anticipation? What separates Mass Mvmnt from some other portions of "the scene" is an appreciation of the funk/hip-hop/reggae lineage. Along with fourthcity and Plan B, Mass Mvmnt produces electronic music (or electronic-ish in some cases) that isn't afraid to deviate from the "strict" rules of IDM and techno and is willing to adopt hip-hop flourishes. Whether it's a simple scratch here or an MC there, Mass Mvmnt chooses to paint with a wide palette that provides a necessary breath of fresh air.

FCS North and Scientific American are probably the best known on the roster, with the former a live staple in Seattle, the latter gaining critical acclaim with his last album. Both will be performing tonight, along with the ragga stylings of DJ Collage, the first Seattle appearance by New Orleans' Time Promises Power, and DJing by Mr. Piccolo, Fucking in the Streets and Plastiq Phantom. It's certainly a lot of music to take in at once, but it's probably the best way to break the silence.

Audio Preview: mass.dstrction volume 1 by Scientific American with Mr. Piccolo

Mass Mvmnt Showcase + Record Release
Wednesday April 5 2006
The War Room, 722 Pike St.
9pm-2am, 21+, $7