The Tribe & Big Cats operate on a simple philosophy: rap music can be fun without being stupid. It can be intelligent without being pretentious. Over a full-length album and an EP, rapper TruthBeTold (Chris Hooks) and producer Big Cats have crafted a sound that ties together all of these impulses, blending the tireless DIY work ethic of the underground, the 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.

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In 2011, TTxBC released two albums. The first, Forward Thinkers Movers Shakers, 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.” The second album, Make Good, was released on December 2, with a sold out release party at First Avenue's 7th St. Entry. The album features appearances from Smoke DZA, BJ The Chicago Kid, MaLLy and more. City Pages named it one of their Albums of the Year. TTxBC continues to work on new music and will also be hitting the road, with shows scheduled throughout the midwest.