Artist description Mello-D & the Rados is a HipHopAcidJazz band. We bring positive, socially conscious music to the stage by incorporating original instrumentals, jazz standards and hardcore hip-hop lyrics into a unique style that is unlike any other. Our purpose is to revitalize the musicianship that many of today's entertainers are missing. The vibe is fresh and original. We find new ways to approach our music which makes every performance different...no two RADOS shows are the same. Started by Darnley "Mello-D" Hodge in 1996, The RADOS is a versatile group not only in musical styles, but also in the instruments played. It may seem like the standard jazz combo at first, but SURPRISE...new musicians, singers, deejays and emcees are incorporated into the band all the time!!This provides for a considerable amount of flexibility. This flexibility has enabled this hiphopacidjazz band to be well received and respected everywhere they go. From classy jazz spots to underground hip-hop joints to college campuses, Mello-D & the Rados are enjoyed!

Music Style Live Band HipHop

Musical Influences John Coltrane, KRS-ONE, Bob Marley

Similar Artists The Roots, M.O.P., Mos Def, Common, WycleJean, Company Flow

Artist History In summer of 1998, Mello-D released his first full length LP entitled Backsliding on the Thermite Records label. Backsliding sold well over 1000 units and is one of the hottest albums on the underground hiphop scene. In 2001, Mello-D put out his second album, "The Ultimate Truth". The first single "Stupid Jerk" drops nationally in February 2002 along with the music video for that song. The Ultimate Truth has already caught the attention of major music publications in DC, New York and Los Angeles and is expected to be distributed nationally as well.

Group Members Mello-D: lead vocals/keys/sax Brod: Guitar Jesse: Bass Bomani: Drums

Instruments One Emcee/Saxophonist, Bass, Drums, Keys, Guitar

Albums The Ultimate Truth (2001) , Backsliding (1998)

Press Reviews "Mello-D is solidly on the Acid Jazz tip."--- The Washington Post "Mello-D is one of the illest newcomers of the year. His lyrical style will leave you amazed after just one verse...This artist is definitely new, different and tight."--- Black Radio Exclusive "...Mello-D personifies the unexpected...His lyrics flow like poetry on water, and the smooth delivery only adds to his immense musical skills."--- Urban Network Magazine "The Best Hip-Hop this side of The Roots Crew."--- C-Knowledge a.k.a. Doodlebug from Digable Planets" "...Mello-D can relay rhymes with an intensity, skilled delivery and intellectual flavor not heard since any one KRS-One album of the 80's."--- The Vine "A lyrical ninja...Mello-D is gonna do some damage!"--- Punchline Magazine "[Mello-D & the Rados] are great! I love having them at the club, they put on a super show and they always bring a great crowd!"--- Mike Khoury Owner, State of the Union (Washington, DC)

Additional Info T-Shirts are also available

Location Alexandria, Virginia - USA

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