- The Urban Sophisticates
The Urban Sophisticates are a live hip-hop group from Greensboro, North Carolina formed in 2002. The group consists of 7 members: Benton James - MC, Aaron James - Vocals, Jeremy Denman - Trumpet, Sal Mascali - Trombone, Ben Perkins - guitar, Ricky Nxumalo - Bass, and Romondo Jessup - Drums. One of their biggest claims to fame within the hip hop world is their horns section; according to blogger Judge Mental, "The horns are their signature, and give them a really funky sound." [http://vinylmeltdown.com/archives/37 VMP] They have described their sound as "post bling neo funk hip hop for ya soul." [http://media.www.carolinianonline.com/media/storage/paper301/news/2005/12/06/ArtsEntertainment/The-Urban.Sophisticates.Are.No.Cowards-1125565.shtml carolinian online] Their energy fueled and original sound are a good sign for the hip hop world, and and even better sign for the vitality that particular genre embodies.Who|date=September 2008
History
The group formed in 2002 in Greensboro, North Carolina. Upon their inception as a group, they began playing at local venues around Greensboro and Chapel Hill.In 2003, they released their debut, self-titled album independently.In 2005, the released their sophomore effort, entitled "The Coward's Anthem".
Independent Music World Series
In 2006, they won the Southeast Disc Makers Independent Music World Series. As a result of which, they "took home their share of $250,000 in prizes, including recording gear, instruments, CD manufacturing services, and more." About the contest, Benton James, MC and frontman stated, ""I couldn't be more thankful and excited that we won the Southeast showcase. It was a great honor to even participate in this event and the industry contacts we made will definitely take us to a higher level. The prizes are such a blessing that we would like to thank Disc Makers, Billboard and Taxi." [http://www.bestmusiconcampus.com/band/default.aspx?bandID=1155 MTVu]
Upcoming album
Their upcoming album, which is currently being recorded as of May, 12, 2008, features some notable collaborations, including Justice League affiliate Nicolay. The album is highly anticipated by Urban fans, and due to the notability of the collaborators, it could place the band in more of a spotlight than they have previously enjoyed.
Discography
Urban Sophisticates (2002)
The Coward's Anthem (2005)
:1.Coward's Anthem:2.We Can Watch it All:3.Run:4.Chapel Hill:5.Khaos Mathematics:6.It's About Time:7.Breakups:8.I'm Feelin it:9.Fake Gun Hands:10.To the Top:11.Soul Crime:12.Testify:13.Live from the Pour House (2007)
Untitled Upcoming Album (unknown)
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