Editor's Picks

Most book launch parties are stuffy library socials featuring readings by bifocaled bores. Enter Boston-based hip-hop scribe Brian Coleman whose latest book Check the Technique is being launched with a party soulful enough to match its tightly woven text. Coleman delves into the intimate histories of 36 classic hip-hop albums with stories from the artists, including Public Enemy and Wu-Tang Clan, bringing nuance and historical credence to this genealogical gem. The power here is in the details—like ?uestlove ‘s admission that the 1994 classic “Do You Want More ?!!!??!” was mostly recorded on equipment stolen from Bell Biv DeVoe’s studio. Q-Tip, formerly of A Tribe Called Quest (featured extensively in the text), is spinning a funked-out set, and Coleman is signing copies. A book party with dope beats? That’s all that and a bag of chips with the dip. (Paul Farber)

PW Concerts in the Park
Wed. Aug 15, 7-9m. With Yah Mos Def + BurnDown All-Stars. Free. Rittenhouse Square, 18th and Walnut Sts. 215-563-7400. www.philadelphiaweekly.com/cip/07