Culture City Weekend Calendar: Erykah Badu/Nas at Chene Park, Derrick May & the DSO, and Corpus Illuminati at Tangent

Download of the Week

“Extraordinary” by Jamall Bufford & Kensaye

The Black Op: Era II continues to shine a light on the collective’s individual artists, this time around it’s co-founder Jamall Bufford’s turn to hold the torch. In collaboration with new TBO producer Kensaye, from London, he delivers Freedom Is. The album is not only a statement but also an exploration of freedom’s complexity, a question aimed at engaging the listener and provoking thought.

This Week’s Calendar

Erykah Badu & Nas @ Chene Park | Saturday, August 15th @ 8 PM

Two of the most talented artists of the ‘90s remain as relevant today as when they’re most significant work was released. Nas is undisputedly one of the most lyrically talented rap artists rappers in art form’s history. Badu’s signature soul stylings continue to enchant ears around the globe. This weekend in Detroit, they’re rockin’ the riverfront at what’s surely going to be an unforgettable evening at Chene Park. 

Derrick May & the DSO @ Chene Park | Friday, August 14th @ 8 PM

When Derrick May established himself nationally as one of the three pioneers of Detroit techno, he did it with a song called “Strings of Life.” May teams-up with symphonies to re-create his classic dance tracks. and he’s bringing this special live collaboration — with its spectacular light show — to Detroit with the one and only Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

Corpus Illuminati @ Tangent Gallery | Friday & Saturday, August 14-15 @ 8 PM

In their own words, “Corpus Illuminata consists of equal parts exhibition, academia and bazaar. The exhibition portion will feature over 90 artistic interpretations from artists local and across the nation. On stage, various speakers will present and discuss a variety of topics of intriguing subject matters. And within the Corpus Bazaar, collectors of medical antiquities, oddities and related handicrafts will present their unique offerings for sale and/or trade.”

Opera Modo @ Paradise Valley  Park | Friday, August 14th @ 6:30 PM

What’s promised is a delightful mash-up of music and advertising that has been inspired by Opera, including music from  La Boheme, Madama Butterfly, Carmen and many more.But these renditions will also be mixed with samples from the likes of LL Cool J, Muse, En Vogue and Bobby McFerrin.

Vitamins Part 1 @ Small’s Bar | Friday, August 14th @ 8 PM

We’re really diggin this cadre of Detroit bands because the breadth of style and approach spans all kinds of contemporary Detroit sounds without offering even a single set of slight disinterest. These acts are all bringing their best, and that’s what’s up.   You’d be a fool not to check out  Mexican Knives, Valley Hush, James Linck, Tart & Almost Free.

Book Signing/Film Screening w Steven Cerio a@ Green Brain Comics | Saturday, August 15th @ 3 PM

Steven Cerio is an artist, writer and filmmaker with an unmistakable style, which set the stage for the neo-psychedelic revival in New York City in the late eighties. Cerio created his own loving and sarcastic expressions of joy for three decades. In the 80’s he started with zines and soon after called upon by galleries and by diverse clients: Nickelodeon, Warner Brothers, A&M Records, Entertainment Weekly and Penguin books. He has drawn posters for King Crimson, Ministry, Les Claypool, Monster Magnet and White Zombie.

Mic Phelps’ Attic Release Party @ Tony V’s | Saturday, August 15th @ 9 PM

Can’t afford the Nas show? We feel ya, bruh. Don’t fret, one of the hottest MC’s in the region is releasing his latest record Saturday night in the Cass Corridor. Mic’s the Realest and Ro Spit are on the bill to boot.