Also this issue: OK, Here's The Situation Prodigal rocker Christopher Tucker is back with a brand-new invention. -A.D. Amorosi CD Reviews -Nicole Pensiero, Mary Armstrong and A.D. Amorosi Sage Francis -Elisa Ludwig The Raveonettes -A.D. Amorosi Gang Starr -Paul Burress Wu Man -Peter Burwasser Carissa's Wierd -Patrick Rapa The Gig -Nate Chinen on Jazz

February 27-March 5, 2003

beat box

compiled by Ainé Ardron-Doley

Brrr, it's almost over right? As we move into March, the city's ever-poppin' music scene just continues to pile it on.

The Beautiful Peoples are the new promoters in town but there's no rookie mistake here. They're rounding up some of the most talented folks in the biz with Souled Out: The Concert Series. Featuring Southern crooner Donnie and England's Julie Dexter, this show promises to be intimate, funky and fun. Mr. Gravy himself and Power's Laiya are hosting alongside the Soul Travelin' DJ tag-team, Brendan and Joey Blanco, kickin' the ill spin tactics (see Musicpicks on p. 37). And at just $12, Philly hasn't seen this much talent packed into The Five Spot for so little money since Black Lily's heyday. Thu., Feb. 27, 9 p.m., $12, The Five Spot, 5 S. Bank St., 267-257-7959. Or, for the under-21'ers, there's always The Foundation events. Like clockwork, it's time for another edition of that lovely platform that so many talented artists call home, The Gathering. Hosted by DJ M-Ski and IB, it's open mic, linoleum and tables for all aspiring MCs, DJs and breakers. Special guests Thyself and Divine round out the bill. Thu., Feb. 27, 10 p.m.-2 a.m., free, The Rotunda, 4012 Walnut St., 215-573-3234, www.foundationarts.org.

Guess who's back? Back again. No, it's not Slim Shady, it's the Grammy Award-winning Windy City MC, Common. Helping him bring down the house are Gang Starr, Talib Kweli and Floetry. Sat., March 1, 8:30 p.m., $29.50-$33, Electric Factory, Seventh and Willow sts., 215-336-2000,

www.electricfactory.net

. This isn't the official afterparty, but it's more than recommended as the next stop. Bodyrock comes alive again with special guest DJ DP One manning the wheels of steel. Straight outta Brooklyn, N.Y., this member of the Turntable Anihilists and the Heavy Hitters is sure to school those Aqua Lounge decks. Joining him, of course, is the always lovely local DJ crew, The Ill Vibe Collective. Sat., March 1, 10 p.m., $6, Aqua Lounge, 323 W. Girard Ave., 215-769-5114, www.illvibe.net.

And cap off this jamming week with Philly's own Jedi Mind Tricks and Outerspace as they take over Silk City in celebration of the single releases, "Animal Rap" and "151." Big Rich Medina hosts the night away with special invited guests 7L & Esoteric and Celph Titled. Tue., March 4, 9 p.m., $5, Silk City, Fifth and Spring Garden sts., 215-592-8838.

And this just in: DUTV Channel 54's The Avenue takes viewers on a trip to the incredible Visu-Ills art show, Monday-Friday, 4 p.m. and Wednesday, 11 p.m. Watch! Check

www.dutv.org/avenue for more information.