Now in its second year, Local Current’s DJ in Residence program is an opportunity for The Current to invite local musicians to take over our all-Minnesota music stream and share their favorite stories and music from the local music scene. So far, Local Current’s DJ in Residence roster has included Mark Mallman, Tess Weinberg (Murder Shoes), Sophia Eris, Greg Grease, and many others. Taking the reins in June is local hip-hop artist deM atlaS.

DeM atlaS was born in Akron, raised in the Twin Cities, and has been busy spreading his brand of hip-hop since signing with Rhymesayers in 2013. His unofficial debut, DWNR, was released in 2014 and met with critical success including a nod in Pitchfork’s “Best MN Hip Hop Releases of 2014.” This release showcased deM’s talents as both a hip hop and visual artist, as he created hand-drawn cover art for each physical copy.

deM atlaS is a frequent collaborator in the Twin Cities music scene, especially within the Rhymesayers family. You’ve heard him rapping alongside Slug in Atmosphere’s “Color in the Snow” and singing the hook on their latest single “Finer Things.” Get excited for some new material from deM atlaS in the next month or so — and tune in to Local Current this evening between 5 and 6 p.m. to hear an exclusive premiere from deM's forthcoming project, mF deM, where he raps over previously released MF Doom beats.

“I’m happy to be the guest resident DJ at the Local Current,” says deM atlaS. “When I was in high school I’d listen to The Current all the time, so it's dope that I’ve been given the opportunity to go behind the scenes and experience DJing a couple of shows this month. Being an artist it’s always nice to expand and see what it’s like on the other side of the mic.”

Spend your afternoons diving deep into the Minnesota music scene with deM atlaS: every Friday through July 1 from noon to 6 p.m. on Local Current!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFYkeDhvurk

Local Current’s DJ in Residence project is supported by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.