Pens & Needles

5+ albums

North Carolinahip hopexperimental hip hopunderground hip hopPolitical Hip Hop

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about

The Mad Rabbi and DJ/Producer Bussy Bownlow combine to form Pens & Needles, the most promising new group emerging from the southeast hip hop scene. After recording (and independently releasing) their smash hit debut EP (A.R.C.O., Dotted Line Records, 2003) and satisfying hip hop fans nationwide with their powerful live performances, the two have developed an on stage chemistry and collaborative genius that can't be matched. Bussy's well-rounded arsenal of turntable skills and melodic orchestrations are the perfect backdrop for the Rabbi’s intricate wordscapes and commanding presence on stage. As part of the NC hip hop community, PNN has certainly made their mark as a force to be reckoned with. Born in Queens, NY and raised in Greensboro, NC, wordsmith the Mad Rabbi is known for his uncanny ability to engage even the most finicky crowd and convert them into die-hard PNN fans. A writer at heart, his style is an amalgamation of street-smart lyricism, socio-political commentary, and spoken-word poetry. After holding down many backyard ciphers, he was introduced to members of Third World Citizens (an informal crew of hip-hop artists, founded by spoken word revolutionary Monte Smith.)in 1995 and soon after joined the collective. He remained with Third World Citizens for several years, simultaneously fronting a progressive rock/hip hop fusion group called The Ghetto Schled. After a move to Asheville, NC, the Rabbi quickly found himself immersed in the local music scene. From perform