The Tribe & Big Cats! operate on a simple philosophy: rap music can be fun without being stupid. It can be catchy without being formulaic. And when it’s done right, rap music will make you nod your head, whether because the MC is on point or because the beat is a banger-- or ideally, both.

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Over a critically-acclaimed mixtape and full-length, rapper TruthBeTold (Chris Hooks) and producers Aye Yo Pete (Peter Gjovik) and Big Cats! have crafted a sound that ties together all of these impulses, blending the tireless DIY work ethic of the underground, the swagger and confidence of the mainstream stars and the kind of pure technical talent that defies easy categorization. It’s “real hip hop” without the elitism. It’s party rap that doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. It’s gimmick-free music that will make your trunk knock and your neurons fire. Earlier this year, The Tribe & Big Cats! released their debut album, Forward Thinkers Movers Shakers. The album featured guest appearances from Planet Asia, Phil Da Agony, Toki Wright, Abstract Rude, and more. City Pages called the album “... equal parts respect for hip-hop's traditional methods and efforts to progress, all couched in the desire to make you nod your head and shake your ass.”