When I first discovered Atmosphere 5 or so years ago, I remember thinking that perhaps it was like the grunge movement for hip hop. It’s minimalist, dirty sounding, but still melodic and catchy with smart lyrics. In a market crowded with Dirty South, Corporate Hip Hop, and remnants of Gangsta Rap, it stood out. Also, Slug reminded me of a guy I would hang out with in high school, an approachable lead guy kind of in the same vein as Dave Grohl. I particularly loved his vocals, which are velvety and intense, their storytelling heavy songs, and performances that highlight a subdued anger that can only come from someone who has had a rocky past.

I’ve seen Atmosphere at least 2 times before, on hot nights at Emo’s Austin. They were great shows. This show, however, was like seeing an entirely different artist. It felt like Atmosphere Lite.

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