I've decided Seattle is the new up-and-comer in the hip-hop game. Or at least, I can't figure out why they aren't. 'bout time a city with an actual musical sense is rising to the top. not much of a fan of dirty south rap, it's good for parties, but not so great for just listening. This stuff is great for actually listening.
Seattle has some great acts at the moment, putting out some great music.
If you are into hip-hop/rap, check out: Common Market, Dyme Def, Blue Scholars, etc.
also a fan of the midwest stuff of course, as that's where I'm from. It's actually similar to Northwest stuff (Seattle) I guess. maybe it's just that I like underground stuff more than mainstream
I like the new dual vocal harmonies, but I dislike the lazy omissions in a couple areas (words just left out, a la live show where the artist is too lazy/tired to spit it all out).