Gossip Wolf got hooked on local experimental pop trio White Ppl late last year via their debut single, “Ilovemybb.” Rapper-producer Ano Ba and singers Elly Tier and Cado San (none of whom is white) transform bits of rap, indie rock, outre dance, folk, and soul into enchanting songs. On Saturday, April 13, White Ppl play the Whistler’s monthly Brasstax series alongside the DJs who organize it. The free show starts at 10 PM, and the Brasstax crew are accepting donations to raise funds for Hoist Fest—a daylong event at Subterranean on Sunday, May 26, where White Ppl will play with Rich Jones, Jordanna, Jovan Landry, and more.
Duane Powell is not only a spectacular DJ and stylish dude but also a heck of a soul historian. His Rear View Mirror Sessions illuminate the careers of classic singers and maverick producers by pairing a lecture from Powell with a performance by an artist who vibes with his subject. Previous installments of the free series have examined Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire and Patti LaBelle; this season kicks off Thursday, April 11, at the Green Line Performing Arts Center with a lecture on songwriter Eugene McDaniels and a set by Tiaybe Bledsoe. Sessions this spring will highlight Curtis Mayfield and Sugar Hill Records cofounder Sylvia Robinson. v
