Verso

Fri., April 6, 10 p.m., with Thee Phantom, A-Dot, Topaz Wise and Red ID, Liquid Charm, 1207 Race St.

by Deesha Dyer

hip-hop

Philly's Verso isn't your average self-promoting MC; he stays on the low, keeps his ego in check and chills on the side at most events. It's quite the opposite when Verso gets on the mic — then his persona is loud and clear, employing an intellectual and clever rhyme style. Instead of using profanity, the Jamaica-born Verso stresses his points through thought-provoking lyrics and an immense vocabulary. To much anticipation, he finally released his debut, Audio Visuals in March. The 14-track album features a slew of guest stars like Red ID, Thee Phantom and Topaz Wise, all of whom will come through to help Verso celebrate this weekend. If the album hasn't found a spot on your shelf yet, you can pick it up as part of the admission price. Don't sleep on those quiet types.

Fri., April 6, 10 p.m., $5 (show) or $10 (show and CD), with Thee Phantom, A-Dot, Topaz Wise and Red ID, Liquid Charm, 1207 Race St., 215-557-0208, www.versomusic.com.