Few rappers commit to originality. In an era of over marketed emcees that resemble faint photocopies of an equally faint source, individuals who express their style and aren’t afraid to experiment are hard to come by. But there are some who are not ready to declare the original gangster an extinct species, and one rapper in particular is more determined than the rest. I’m talking about Detroit legend Danny Brown.

Danny Brown’s original style and eccentric personality have made him “one of rap’s most unique figures in recent memory” (MTV). His writings, telling vulgar and hilarious stories about his tough up bringing in Detroit, are told with such strength that they strike the listener like a punch in the face. Whatever he’s spitting out, you can’t help but to be enthralled at his delivery. His distinct voice and bizarre beats blend into a perfect combination of honesty and lewdness made even more unbelievable by the fact that it’s all true.

Brown came into the spotlight last year, when he signed to Fool’s Gold Records and released his album XXX as a free download. It received humongous attention, including being named the best hip hop album of the year by Spin and an 8.2/10 from Pitchfork (and let’s not forget “Artist of the Year from the Metro Times!). The album, covering everything from drug abuse to his preferred sexual practices, is about as real as you get; you take it for what it is and make up your own damn mind about it. Every single collaboration he participates in, whether it’s with Das Racist or El-P, he manages to steal the spotlight and shine like a “diamond on a tanning bed” (“Huzzah!”). His passion and originality are almost palpable, and his delivery is so raw that you can’t help but to want more.

More refreshing than his music is his determination and originality to stay true to himself and the genre. Danny’s found his own way to make an impression on the genre and push the boundaries for hip hop as well as electronic music. He’s stuck true to his image and has worked hard to make the dream he’s had since kindergarten come alive. And in a genre so diluted with marketing strategies and viral insanity, it’s refreshing to see someone who truly gives a shit about the music.

So thank you, A-Trak, for continuing to bridge the gap between EDM and Hip-Hop and taking it to the next level. And thank you, UC Berkeley club Superb, for hosting a free Danny Brown concert starting at 5:00 PM today, which holy shit yes I’m going to and you should too.

-Mr. Green