UP ROCK is a duo based out of St. Paul, Minnesota. UP ROCK is Dundee and Digie, Both members were involved in a group called The Abstract Pack in the early 90’s. The Abstract Pack went on to create one of the first nationally recognized hip hop albums out of Minnesota. They later would receive The Legend Award at the Twin Cities Hip Hop Awards in 2008. Most recently their contribution to the Twin Cities Hip Hop scene was documented in the book “Headshots, Headspin and History” a memoir from author Zach Combs. UP ROCK is a new project the duo started in March of 2012. Their Debut EP was written and completed in two short weeks. They worked with highly decorated photographer Jamel Shabazz for the EP cover photo and hope to collaborate further with Mr. Shabazz to honor the tenth anniversary of his book “Back in the Days”.
The EP was written, produced and mixed by UP ROCK, with hopes to create something a little different. The goal is to find a sound there own and grow through collaborative effort. Their new sound is well defined on the their full length album "Let That Bass Shake" and their collaborative efforts continue on the full length release. Now working with artist, photographer, and educator Bayeté Ross Smith who lives in New York City. The album cover is an image of one of Bayetés sculptures and it may lead to UP ROCK creating a mix-tape to be used in conjunction with those sculptures.
Since the release of the EP, they’ve had a busy schedule. Performing with such acts as Talib Kwale, Toki Wright, More Than Lights and Ashley Dubose to name a few. UP ROCK has also enjoyed a handful of press from blogs (Be Scene Mpls, City Pages, The Current and Rock Box) along with air play from The Current. UP ROCK’s new sound is definitely being heard and received with optimism. UP ROCK defines their sound as Body Rock hip hop thats textured and influenced by dub styled sound systems.
