The Early Days at The Western Front

Back when we were Main Ingredient, The Western Front was voted best hip-hop venue by The Boston Phoenix in 1998.

"Given the international popularity of hip-hop and the fact that so many DJs and rappers operate out of Boston, it seems ludicrous that there is no club devoted exclusively to showcasing local talent or up-and-coming stars from out of town. We are left instead with a handful of clubs that sponsor hip-hop nights -- usually only once a week -- and arenas that bring in huge MTV-sponsored events featuring tepid artists who bankroll the media giant. Oh well. Good things sometimes come in small doses. On the last Sunday of every month at the Western Front, for instance, Main Ingredient Productions hosts a hell of a hip-hop showcase, "All That! Hip-Hop, Poetry & Jazz." Featuring national and local poets, MC's, Boston rap groups like Seven L. & Esoteric, Virtuoso, and Mr. Lif, and live music provided by the All That! band (with members of Down-Low Connection and Superhoney), this once-a-month event is a don't-miss extravaganza for any fan of urban music and hip-hop culture. The long-running club, which has mostly been a hotspot for big-name roots reggae stars -- although it sponsors more adventurous music too, such as experimental jazz -- is doing the city a service by giving Main Ingredient a permanent residency at the space. Don't forget to bring your own rhymes -- open mic's at 8, and it's phat."