After a two-year hiatus to complete its new album, Found Missin', KC hip-hop crew Heet Mob has relaunched its open-mic night. Much like the Apollo Theater's legendary amateur nights, the Essence is open to performers of types every Wednesday night at 8. (hopefuls have until 10 to sign up for a slot.) Rappers, singers, comedians, instrumentalists, poets – all of them have two minutes to bust a groove over one of DJ Hylanda's beats. Heet Mob's Vic "Daheeteus" Hunt describes the Essence as a “positive, good-vibe environment for music lovers from everywhere.” Once a month, the Essence also features the best-of-the-best in a showcase night, where local acts have a chance to share the stage with national underground poets and hip-hop performers. The shindig goes down at Retro (1518 McGee, 816-421-4201). Admission is $5, and women get in free before 10:30 p.m.
Wednesdays, 8 p.m., 2011
