Pittsburgh Turns Prehistoric With Jurassic 5 and Walking With Dinosaurs (CPs Wed., 7/30/14)

1) Rap, like other forms of music, conveys emotion and changes mood. Jurassic 5‘s sound is that of a classic, party rap nature. You won’t hear a lot of misogyny, swearing, and the use of the “n word” that laces many rap songs. What you will hear are intelligent lyrics and melodic music and beats. Make no mistake though, these guys can bring it and they will tell you so. These factors give them broad appeal to diverse audiences.

Jurassic 5 formed in Los Angeles in 1995 when rappers and DJs from two different groups joined up. Their name came about when, according to the Sydney Morning Herald, band member Chali 2na played a song of theirs for a friend’s mom and she said, “You guys think you sound like the Fantastic Five, but you sound more like the Jurassic Five.” They just dropped their latest release “The Way We Do It,” produced by the  late rapper/producer Heavy D. It has as its running hook “My Doorbell” by the The White Stripes. The band is fresh from playing the U.K.’s Glastonbury Music Festival earlier this month. Also on the bill are Dilated Peoples, Beat Junkies (Rhettmatic), and MC Supernatural. Doors open at 7 p.m. Stage AE, 400 North Shore, Dr., North Shore.

2) The “Tyrant Lizard”—Tyrannosaurus Rex—is on the loose along with 19 other lifelike dinosaurs at the Consol Energy Center, and there’s sufficient special effects to scare the early-caveman part of our brains. Walking With Dinosaurs: The Arena Spectacular runs through Sunday. Spears, fire, or rocks are strictly forbidden. 7 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

3) The annual Shadyside Sidewalk Sale is happening today through Sunday, all along the upscale Walnut Street shopping corridor. Look for great bargains at the merchant’s outdoor tables. Then, savor your shopping successes  by enjoying a meal and relaxing in the many cafes and restaurants, including Shady Grove, The Elbow Room, William Penn Tavern, China Palace, Thai Place, Mario’s East Side Saloon, Cappys, Steel Cactus, Girasole, Coffee Tree Roasters, and more.

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