Atmosphere takes live hip-hop to the stratosphere

Fresh off its summer slot on the Vans Warped Tour, Atmosphere has hit the road once again to promote their newest album, Seven's Travels. The tour rolled into the Bluebird Oct. 28, bringing along the pride of the Minneapolis music scene. \nAfter a quick scratching session to open up the show by Atmosphere DJ Mr. Dibbs, MC Slug swaggered onto the stage, unassumingly dressed in green cargos and blue hoodie. But Slug immediately showed it isn't the bling-bling and latest throwback that gives you stage presence. Slug debuted new songs for the packed house, while tying in hits from each of Atmosphere's three other LPs. \nTogether since meeting up in Cincinnati 12 years ago, this duo has live chemistry. Dibbs' cuts and scratches are quick, edgy and on point. Slug has that special touch on the mic, clear enough to get his lyrics across and provocative enough to draw anyone from the back of the club sipping a drink to come forth and get in the midst.\nAtmosphere has become one of Bloomington's most anticipated hip-hop live acts because of its ability to relate to the largely collegiate fan base. Slug gets political -- "I love America, but I hate Americans" -- urging the crowd to vote this week.\nIt's that combination of Slug's approachable demeanor and smooth-talking lyrics -- "got a thing for the women who don't love themselves/ So either loosen up your hair or tighten up your belt" -- which soothes the ladies, coupled with lustful honesty that has the guys in the audience bobbing their head with agreement.\n"I want the audience to get a sense of urgency," remarked a sweat-drenched Slug following the show. "I don't care if it's to pay your rent, to crash your car, whatever. Just get out and do something." \nApathy appeared to have Slug visibly disturbed. "I said I love America, but I hate Americans because America gives you control, privileges. Americans don't consider using these privileges. They let bad shit happen and just turn their head." \nAfter preaching his thoughts on politics, his new album and his ex-girlfriend's influence on some of his tunes, Slug turned away to browse the remnants of the post-show fan base. But he mentioned this one last bit of advice: "Just tell the girls to brush their teeth before they kiss me"