Hip-hop needed class. It also needed some innovation and honesty. In 2002 The Urban Sophisticates began to provide just that with a project record that no one knew would slowly, but surely, change the face of the genre on the east coast. When ‘Urban’ began taking the road less traveled, it founded itself on the ideal that beats could move bodies and true music could move souls. After the critically acclaimed release of ”The Cowards Anthem,” their touring schedule has taken them north to New York City, south to Austin Texas for South by Southwest, west to Chicago, even as far as Japan and Korea. Their sound has become the definition of what hip-hop will be in the near future. Lyrically, Benton James continues to confess his flaws and sarcastically point out what’s horribly right and wrong with the world. Aaron James brings a catchy, well sung hook to every song with old school influences of Soul and foundational R&B. Romondo Jessup brings his cool and collected rhythms through the drums. Jeremy Denman brings his wisdom  and flow to the trumpet and flugle horn. Sal Mascali brings his crazy energy and high level of talent to the trombone. Ricky Nxumalo brings his flair for great bass lines and heavy stage presence to what has become a famous under ground live show.