Southern-bred hip-hop group Nappy Roots fell off the mainstream music radar shortly after the success of their 2002 album Watermelon, Chicken, & Gritz. They feuded with their label, Atlantic Records, and their sophomore album received little attention from the public. But after a five year hiatus, Nappy Roots are back. The Humdinger marks the group’s first effort as independent artists and as a quintet (member R. Prophet left to pursue a solo career). It exudes authenticity, brimming with personal anecdotes and socially conscientious lyrics about growing up poor in the South. Standout tracks like “Small Town” and “Down N’ Out” are as infectious—if not more—than their past hits “Po’ Folks” and “Aw Naw.” The country boys’ return to the stage this evening should provide a much needed breath of fresh air in a scene that too often relies on bravado without the substance to back it up.

Sat., Feb. 14, 9 p.m., 2009