Eight Gigs: KaiLord

Local emcee KaiLord fancies himself a “ghetto philosopher,” at least according to his bio. All you need to do is check out his new Sunset Valley EP (released this past April) to know he’s not exaggerating. “I picked up my pen because it’s mightier than swords and shells,” he says on opening track “Sunrise.” A lot of rappers talk about the harsh realities of their environment, and some occasionally put a hopeful spin on their struggle; Kailord is unwavering in this message: “I’m riding through the hood like the shooters don’t exist.” It’s powerful. Even the beats sound raw and inspirational. 3520 Stockton Boulevard, www.facebook.com/kailordthemc.