Martin Luther/ Cody Chesnutt

Hip-hop

Is it possible to speak on Martin Luther and Cody Chesnutt without mentioning that hip-hop band? Of course not, but the two are trying their damnedest to distinguish themselves as solo artists. In between touring as the lead rhythm guitarist and vocalist for the Roots, Northern Cali's Martin Luther has been anointed the next big thing by MTV, Vibe, even Oprah. His second album, Rebel Soul Music (Goodvibe Records) — set for release in October — reflects Luther's unconventional stance on soul music, and his knack for fusing it with punk, rock and funk. So far, his style has been well-received, but that may all change if the freshness around the Roots' Tipping Point goes stale. Look at what happened to his friend Chesnutt after Phrenology.

Sun., Aug. 8, 8 p.m., $14, with Philmore Brown, The North Star, 27th and Poplar sts., 215-684-0808.

—Deesha Dyer

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