Beats, Breaks & Culture makes its triumphant return, August 5-7, with a mix of live music, DJs and dance. Celebrating all that is hip-hop and electronic music, this year’s festival will bridge these two genres, while acknowledging the groundwork of other styles that helped to create them.
On August 5, nine-piece, live hip-hop band, The Dirty B-Sides will perform their signature hip-hop, soul fusion sound. Headlining the night is Sinkane, with his unique blends of electronic, post-rock, Sudanese pop and free jazz. Sinkane’s music has the distinct quality of being nostalgic and ultramodern at the same time. On August 6, critically acclaimed hip-hop group Jungle Brothers will take the Concert Stage. This trio pioneered the fusion of jazz and hip-hop and was the first hip-hop group to use a house music producer. With Afro-centric lyrics laid upon jazz samples, the trailblazing Jungle Brothers are sure to put on a can’t-miss show. Rocking the stage all weekend long is the Battle in the Round, in partnership with Universal B-Boy League, for 3-on-3 breakdance battles against some of Toronto’s top breakers.
“Both hip-hop and electronic music have been influenced by many other genres such as soul, jazz, disco and funk,” explains Sergio Elmir, Artistic Associate. “Through this year’s Beats, Breaks and Culture we bridge the worlds of hip-hop and electronic music to explore the similarities and divergences that make them so unique. The Hip-Hop vs. House After-party is the perfect place to celebrate both styles, as DJs skillfully blend between hip-hop and house music, while simultaneously shining a light on new, experimental sounds.”
Beats, Breaks & Culture is a weekend that celebrates hip-hop and electronic music while paying tribute to the various others which aided in their creation. With an accessible venue and family-friendly activities, Beats, Breaks & Culture has something for all to enjoy.
For additional information, please visit harbourfrontcentre.com/festivals/beatsbreaksandculture/ or call 416-973-4000. For information about getting here, visit harbourfrontcentre.com/gettinghere/.