Gothic Theatre
Akrobatik Of The Perceptionists
Akrobatik has become one of hip-hop’s most dependable artists over the past few years. Through his solo work and as a member of the Perceptionists (along with Mr. Lif and DJ Fakts one), the Boston native has created a fanbase that stretches across international borders.
Akrobatik’s approach to the mic recalls a time where skills and creativity were the most important aspects of an emcee’s repertoire. His dextrous wordplay (“The Hand That Rocks The Cradle”, “Feedback”), socially conscious subject matter (“Time”, “Remind My Soul”, “Cooler Headz”), powerful voice, and commanding stage presence make him one of hip-hop’s most complete artists today. His name is one he chose as a teenager to symbolize his ability to “flip” any style, as well as his wide range of subject matter.
Akrobatik first burst on to the scene with his Detonator Records 12” single “Ruff Enuff”in 1998, which also featured standout tracks “Woman” and “The Fat Sh*t”. which features Mr. Lif, in their first of many successful collaborations. From there Ak released a slew of independent singles, including the wildly popular “SayYesSayWord” on Detonator Records, and the Rawkus-released “Internet MCs” in 2000.
After the Rawkus single garnered him some national acclaim, Akro and Detonator took advantage of the opportunity to release the first official Akrobatik CD, “Akrobatik: The EP”, in 2000. The independent release went on to sell over 10,000 copies and is still in demand to this day.
By now, Akro had the attention of many indie labels across the country, and signed with New York upstart Coup D’Etat to release 2003’s “Balance”. Powered by the soulful and powerful single “Remind My Soul”, the album helped solidify Ak’s position amongst the upper echelon of emcees. “Remind My Soul” also won Akrobatik first place in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition. “Balance” received practically unanimous critical acclaim, and Akrobatik began touring the world extensively on the heels of the album’s success.
Enter the Perceptionists. Long-time best friends and collaborators Mr. Lif and DJ Fakts One joined forces with Ak in 2005 to release the “Black Dialogue” LP on Definitive Jux Records. The group enjoyed a year that included over 150 tour dates, and a spot on Rolling Stone Magazine’s prestigious Top 50 Records of the Year list. Even more remarkable is that “Black Dialogue” was the only independent hip-hop record to make the list.
During his career, Akrobatik has shared the stage and toured with many of the genre’s greatest, such as KRS-One, Eminem, Fat Joe, the Roots, Black Moon, A Tribe Called Quest, and many others. He has also collaborated with heavy hitters such as Guru of Gangstarr, Shock G. of Digital Underground, Diamond of DITC, DJ Revolution, Da Beatminerz, Edo G., and more. His music has appeared in television and movies, as well as in video games
With his recent signing to highly respected New York imprint Fat Beats Records, an album due in summer ‘06, and more collaborative efforts with the Perceptionists on the horizon, the future looks bright for Akrobatik.
