Each year that CMJ hits New York, you can feel the energy in the air… music heads take to the streets to soak up their favorite artists’ music, and in most cases, they also get a taste for some new ones along the way. Last week, I had the privilege of seeing three great shows and upwards of fifteen artists and groups perform, and I’m happy to report that both vets and newbies made all the running around worth it.

It wasn’t an official CMJ show, but The Clipse lit up Hiro Ballroom on Tuesday night at Myspace’s “The Release” concert series. Toting a set list stacked with vintage hits and newer soon-to-be-favorites, the Thornton brothers reminded spectators why they’re still a serious force to be reckoned with. Easily one of the most underrated rap duos in the game, Malice and Pusha T will unveil the highly anticipated Til The Casket Drops on December 8th.

I remember seeing them open for 50 in college, *sigh*… I digress: Watch clips for “Cot Damn” and “Grindin’”

Prior to The Clipse, Atlanta native and hip hop newcomer Donnis performed, bringing out fellow MC and ATLien, Pill. Like Wale and Kid Cudi did last year, Donnis released his mixtape Diary of An ATL Brave through streetwear company 10.Deep, so it’s safe to say he’s heading down the right path… I guess we’ll see where it goes.

The following night, I hit East Village subterranean venue DROM to catch the Brooklyn Bodega Showcase featuring a number of up-and-coming MCs. Missing out on a few openers, I arrived in time to catch Diamond District perform. The DMV group, comprised of MC/producer Oddisee and MCs X.O. and yU, released their free LP In The Ruff on their website in April, following it up with the Diamond Exchange mixtape and a formal release of the album - both of which dropped this October. Hailing from DC, these guys boast a gritty sound that has people who’ve heard the record talking, calling it one of the best hip hop albums of the year.

Tanya Morgan took the stage next, nailing a solid set before headliners Pac Div closed out the evening with an energetic performance that completely sold me. (Sidenote: They are sweet potatahs.) Prior to that night, I had never seen them live, but trust me when I tell you that this LA-repping trio has stage presence for days! Although they are often likened to A Tribe Called Quest, the Church League Champions embody a unique style of their own, mixing contemporary rhymes with throwback beats, and they thoroughly engaged the room full of supportive fans.

In case you haven’t seen it, watch their video for “Mayor” here.

But the night didn’t stop there… hopping in a cab, I then headed uptown to B.B. Kings, eager to see what hip hop blog mega-powers OnSmash and NahRight had in store for their Better Recognize showcase. Headliners included Raekwon, Styles P. and Jadakiss, and with a lineup like that, it’s not too surprising that fellow performer OJ Da Juiceman was actually booed off stage by the intolerant NY-centric crowd (much to the dismay of Hot 97’s MissInfo, who co-hosted the event with Peter Rosenberg). Sick and losing his voice, Raekwon almost didn’t make the show- and in case there was any question, Styles and Jada certainly did set B.B. Kings on fire. Other artists on the bill were Kidz in the Hall, Curren$y, Donnis, Pill, Emilio Rojas, and Stalley, and surprise guests Wiz Khalifa and Kid Cudi stopped by to grace the stage as well.

I don’t know about you, but seeing Styles and Jada perform together really tickled me. If you want more, check out my footy from the show: “We Gonna Make It” and “I Get High” OR feel free to go through my albums on Flickr. Pow. Until next year, CMJ!