Joell Ortiz

Joell Ortiz might get labeled a throwback because he makes rap music the old-fashioned way: as a hot MC over killer beats. But there’s nothing dated about his sound, his demeanor or his subject matter on his still-vital debut CD, The Brick. We've been cooling it a while now for Ortiz's official follow-up, but mixtapes and hot shows have made the wait worthwhile. Special guests are promised tonight.