SLCene Suggests: The Coup at The State Room

THE COUP, THE STATE ROOM, Wednesday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., $20

The first inclination is to label The Coup as a hip-hop crew, and while the passionate lyrics and booming beats remain from the group’s roots, this Oakland-based crew led by singer/activist Boots Riley has evolved into a musical force that uses every sound and style imaginable to get their ideas across to the audience. Oftentimes, those ideas involve social justice and attacks on racism and capitalism’s dark side, and as heavy as the topics Riley addresses might be, the music is never anything less than a joyful blast of booty-moving funk (and then some). The band’s latest album, Sorry to Bother You, features guest musicians surrounding Riley, including Living Colour’s Vernon Reid, Das Racist, Jolie Holland and Joe Henry–a diverse array of players indicative of The Coup’s muse these days. The Coup came through Salt Lake City for a show at Bar Deluxe in support of their last album, Pick a Bigger Weapon, and it was a complete blast. Don’t be surprised if their visit this year is one of the best shows of the year. David Williams with the Joshua Payne Orchestra and Kev Choice open the show.