I get bored with most hip hop. I find most is formulaic. Uninspired. Rigid. The Knux are anything but.

The brothers Krispy and Joey Lindsey–NOLA natives who have since migrated to LA– put on a show that leaves one wondering where the hell they’ve been all your life. Combining a punkrock style, rockn’roll sensibility, and a form of hip-hop that harkens back to the good old days when it wasn’t all about the bitches and bling (well, let’s face it–it’s always *kind of* about the bitches, right?), the Knux leave you wanting to storm the stage and testify. Or at least bob your head to the beats and secretly wish you weren’t too self-conscious to dance your ass off, if you’re a rhythmicly-challenged midwesterner like myself.

In an industry that makes selling out nearly impossible to pass up, these guys have remained true to their craft. Signing to Interscope has only seemed to sharpen their edges, rather than dull them.

Known for their high-energy performances, they lived up to the billing; and actually, having no expectations going into the show, I thought to myself midway through their first song–”Yes. This is what it’s about.” And I think I probably had a dumb smile on my face the entire set. As did most everyone else around me.

Their newest record, Eraser, is a nice addition to anyone’s Walkman. And is highly recommended for turning your next boring house party into a sweaty, drunken dance orgy. But, really, it can’t live up to catching a live set from these guys. Keep an eye out. They’re not showing any sign of slowing down any time soon.

Check out my photoset from the night. (c) Jason Albus Photography.

“She’s So Up” One of my favorites of the night.

Follow me on twitter @jalbus.