Some quick thoughts on Wednesday night’s listening party for M.anifest’s new group, A.R.M. (African Rebel Movement, aka Artists Representing the Motherland). The Minneapolis rapper (by way of Ghana) released his solo debut, “Manifestations” in 2007. While it would seem like a follow-up is in order, he’s decided to focus his energies on a group effort with a fellow African-born MC (Krukid) and a Brooklyn-based producer (Budo). Or, as M.anifest described the group on Wednesday: “Two Africans and a Jewish guy.” With “Uprising” mostly finished, the crew held a listening party at Sauce Spirits and Soundbar to preview 16 songs for local media and fellow hip-hop artists. The small crowd was a who’s who of Twin Cities hip-hop. I spotted Slug and Ant of Atmosphere, Big Quarters, Benzilla and members of Black Blondie. About the music: It sounds great. M.anifest and Krukid are both nimble, fast-paced MCs who love rapping about their homeland. Budo’s beats are soulful and exciting (there's one beat by Medium Zach of Big Quarters). While he’s working on several hip-hop projects right now, Budo said his music has also appeared in episodes of Bravo TV’s “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” (as transition cues between scenes). “Unfortunately, I have these nightmares that that is how I’m going to be known,” Budo joked. M.anifest said they hope to shop the album around for a record deal. Or at the very least, M.anifest told the crowd, “We hope some rich guy puts his money behind this s---.” Me too. Credit: Tom Horgen Source: www.startribune.com