If you walk into Cafe Mustache in the middle of the Skoli Moly Donut Shop, you won’t realize you’re on the Logan Square strip on Milwaukee Avenue on the northwest side. That’s because DJ Skoli (government name Ryan Roberts) curates a diverse and seamless line-up of up to 10 singers, rappers and DJs from around town in a way most venues can’t match. This is a testament to Skoli’s decade-long history of hosting local events and using his resources as a DJ and social powerhouse to enhance the work of other artists.
Skoli is the founder of a record label and event production company called Kinky Elevator Music. Kinky Elevator Music showcases experimental beat-driven artists and helps them build their brands. It was also his Soundcloud name for the Hyde Park native, where he used to post his music and that of his peers upon request. Skoli has channeled that passion project spirit into his Skoli Moly Donuts his shop, which is typically held on the third Thursday of each month. He has 10-15 minutes to play each artist, and Skoli sells handmade donuts. Towards the end of the night, Skoli or another of his DJs plays beats and unfolds the cypher. Artists and audiences are invited to participate in spontaneous freestyles in the middle of Cafe Mustache.
The next Skoli Moly Donut Shop is on Thursday, April 20th, and will be celebrating its 2nd anniversary in May. I look forward to many years to come.
Related
keep the beat
Chicago’s beat scene is an inescapable incubator for adventurous and ambitious instrumental hip-hop, an inescapable draw for the city’s rappers.