"The difference between an ARTIST and an ENTERTAINER is that an ENTERTAINER will exploit an art form just to entertain...but an ARTIST will use entertainment as a means to display their art...MELLO-D & The RADOS are ARTISTS." --- MELLO-D Since the advent of funk music in the late 60's, there have been countless amounts of acts that have incorporated jazz sounds into comtemporary rhythm tracks. The natural meshing of phat drum loops, creative samples and hard-hitting lyrics resulted in an entirely new genre or music. However, in spite of the artistic breakthrough that hip-hop made, many acts lacked the live flavor needed to truly bring out the musicality of the art form...until now... Mello-D & the Rados is a hiphopacidjazz band. We bring positive, socially conscious music to the stage by incorporating original instrumentals, jazz standards and hardcore hip-hop lyrics into a unique style that is unlike any other. Our purpose is to revitalize the musicianship that many of today's entertainers are missing. The vibe is fresh and original. We find new ways to approach our music which makes every performance different...no two RADOS shows are the same. Started by Darnley "Mello-D" Hodge in 1996, The RADOS is a versatile group not only in musical styles, but also in the instruments played. It may seem like the standard jazz combo at first, but SURPRISE...new musicians, singers, deejays and emcees are incorporated into the band all the time!! This provides for a considerable amount of flexibility. This flexibility has enabled this hiphopacidjazz band to be well received and respected everywhere they go. From classy jazz spots to underground hip-hop joints to college campuses, Mello-D & the Rados are enjoyed. In addition to releasing his debut LP Backsliding Mello-D has also graced the stage with popular acts such as Jill Scott and Poor Righteous Teachers and he has played with jazz legends like Charlie Hampton, Barry Harris, George Coleman and Clark Terry. This is not your average emcee, this man is here to stay and has plenty to say...so listen up! "Mello-D & the Rados...not 50% Jazz...not 50% hip hop...100% phat music"