B-Sides: DJQ

MUSIC AS POETRY

If you didn't catch local poet and beat maker Enrique García Naranjo's piece in the L.A. Times in May, you'll want to check out "What Is Mexcellent?" right now online for a great read on Tucson's southside. It's uplifting, gives voice to marginalized communities through the written word. However, this multi-talented writer and performer has more in store for Tucson, specifically with the release of his beat tape titled [sin ti]. Sunny and chill, with a handful of recognizable pop, rock and R&B samples from Michael Jackson, The Beatles and more, the tape showcases García Naranjo's work under the moniker DJQ, offering up soul-satisfying grooves to help you mellow out on those hot summer days.

[sin ti] will be released on Thursday, July 28 at La Pilita Cultural Center on Thursday, July 28. The event, which aims to showcase hip hop, poetry and photography, runs from 7:30 until 9:30 p.m. The event is free and open to all ages.