Rap fans will get the chance to see a multifaceted hip hop show on February 27 when the Montreal-based group Shades of Culture will perform at the Spinning Wheel.

Shades of Culture have toured with major names in the music business and claim as a highlight numerous freestyle battles with "The Poet'' KRS-1.

Vocalist DShade and manager Paget Williams promised all hip hop crews a good time and said people who like good music are also welcome.

"We do conscious and positive hip hop,'' DShade said this week. "We have toured so much with live bands we have learned to develop a show.'' He added: "It's the kind of show Bermudians have never seen. No in and out after four songs -- we've heard all about that!'' As a hip hop band, Shades of Culture draw from an eclectic list of influences, which include numerous rappers and DJs.

But that list also includes reggae singers Tenor Saw Judy Mowatt, and the indefinable -- but nominal -- reggae band, Bad Brains.

"From Bad Brains we learned that its not just the music but how you present it,'' DShade said. "This will be a full hip hop show with freestyle and breaking and the rest.'' He added: "You can't limit yourself. Otherwise there is no freedom in your music.

Mr. Williams, who owns a record label and produces other acts including the reggae band Jah Cutta, said Montreal will soon blow up as a haven for hip hop.

"Montreal has a lot of talent,'' he said. "It's totally different from Toronto or in the US.'' Paget added: "There, you might hear a rap in English, French, or (Haitian) Creole. It's a melting pot.'' On tour to support their first album, "Mindstate'', the group will be featured in the March issue of the Source magazine.

A decade after the heyday of the Beatbox, Shades of Culture have Krazy Noiz on the roster as well as DJ Storm. DShade shares the mike with Mr. Len.

DShade has invited all potential rappers and breakers to the show, reminiscent of his own time with KRS 1.

"Being called on stage to freestyle with him was the peak of my experience in hip hop,'' DShade said. "He's incredible. He's got an aura and electricity and a vibe coming from him.'' Paget added: "Don't be afraid to come up and meet and greet us. We learn from everybody.'' Additional information is available on the internet at www.musicmedianetwork.com.

D. Shade: A good time is promised