With so much poppin off for CMJ, even the most discerning music snob can get a case of the “fuck thats” and choose to skip the Marathon all together. I mean, there are just too many shows and to be honest too many bands that suck. But there is also some really dope shit going on this week too. Case in point, the homie showcase tomorrow night at Southpaw. Frank151’s got equal parts classics and new skool with everyone from Grand Puba to Trouble Andrew. A special heads up to HighSnob readers: Redman and Spank Rock are gonna be there too. Oh and did I mention $1 Colt 45? Hells yeah Billy D! Hit up events@frank151.com to RSVP and say Timbo Baggins sent ya and you are all good for VIP aight? Full info after the jump.

Unfortunately I had to bounce to Chicago on Wednesday so missed out on several dope CMJ jumpoffs, but it is was it is and some good biz got done. Last night I was back at it, hitting Santos hard for the Dubshot Records showcase featuring 77Klash followed by the Frank151 party with the Noisettes and U-God from the Wu Tang. As much as I find myself in Santos, the spot just keeps getting better. 77Klash was on fire last night! With the impenetrable wall of sound that is the Santos Sound System, Klash’s electro craze dancehall insanity was at it’s sharpest peak yet. Klash himself said “I’ve never been calmer for a show in my life” but you wouldn’t know it from what transpired on stage. With a full squad of dancers, DJ Gravy on the decks and his righthand man Barrington holding him down on vocals, Klash demonstrated why he needs to be Brooklyn’s next big thing. The show’s highlight, Klash mashing his “Caroline” to Santogold’s “Starstruck” – Pure Fiya!!!

Following him was a perfect throwback performance from U God. Golden arms was in top form spitting Wu bangers and solo joints with the energy of a new jack and the swagger of a vet. I spoke to him afterward and he was gassed, “I just thank everyone for coming out to support Wu,” he said before adding “watch out for my new album!” Word up. Finally, the UK’s Noisettes tore shit down. I’d seen them three or so times before and was already a fan but getting the chance to kick it with the impossibly amazing Shingai before her show put everything in a whole new light. Shingai if you are reading this (and I know you are) don’t go. Ever. Seriously though, this chick is the truth. Aight, it’s Friday and I’m back at it again. Peep some pics below.

The annual CMJ marathon kicked off last night. With literally a thousand shows to hit over the course of a week, the trick is to choose wisely. Last night I got things crackin at my homey Peter Bittenbender’s Decon jumpoff. I’ve known Peter for almost a decade and have watched this kid build a real deal hip hop empire out of his love for this shit. Working with sustainable superstars rather than flash in the pan rappers, Peter now has the likes of Aceyalone, Evidence and 88 Keys on his roster. They all came out in top form last night and threw a jammy like it was 1993. From the sound of it, 88 Key’s new album, The Death of Adam is gonna be some shit! Look for it November 11. Pics after the jump.