DJ Konsept

DJ Konsept made a local name for himself on the radio as a host for KJHK 90.7’s seminal Breakfast for Beatlovers and One programs, but he’s also known in France, where he toured for three weeks this past winter, culminating with a prestigious gig at L’Anfer. Also known as Edwin Morales, the Puerto Rican-born, Kansas-raised DJ has proven to be one of local hip-hop’s most influential tastemakers. As head of the promotion team Downplay, Morales masterminded scenes where none existed before, bringing in national acts, supporting local hip-hop up-and-comers and spinning classic cuts for the dance-minded masses. Project Groove at the Pool Room, Neon at La Tasca and countless evenings at downtown KC nightspots would not have been possible without Konsept’s diligent efforts. Though the behind-the-scener’s forays into the spotlight are somewhat rare, his fluid mixture of techno and house music (with smatterings of hip-hop and jungle) is both intoxicating and danceable. Headlining this evening’s bill is New York City’s !!!, now garnering critical raves for its cheekily titled ten-minute single “Me and Giuliani Down by the School Yard.” Word of mouth can be tough when your name is pronounced as any three repetitive sounds (!!!’s publicist recommends Uh Uh Uh or Chk Chk Chk), but the band’s Manchester-flavored grooves (it’s been described as a funkier version of the Stone Roses) have already started stuttering contests in the U.K.