Dumate

On Dumate’s first album in four years, 2009's We Have The Technology, the Madison hip-hop quintet delivers a set of organic-sounding jams that pack an intellectual punch to the sternum. It also manages to make each member’s contributions feel essential: The tricky wordplay of Dudu Stinks collides with the on-the-surface rawness of fellow MC DLO, while producer Man Mantis supplies punchy samples over the awesomely tight rhythm section of drummer-vocalist Jah Boogie and bassist Nick Moran. In addition to Dumate’s unyielding energy, its lively execution of its complex tunes onstage makes any of the group’s shows a highly worthwhile experience.

Updated 11/23/2009