Preview: Can A Sista Rock A Mic? Festival

Entering its fourth year of existence, the Can A Sista Rock A Mic? Festival will be taking place October 8-11. Last year's lineup featured seasoned veterans Bahamadia and MC Lyte, among others. This year, there's a heavy emphasis on female up-and-comers who look to make names for themselves in the near future. As it has in the past, CASRAM puts a premium on artistry and providing a venue for acts that deserve greater attention.

Wednesday:
Dallas native N'Dambi got her start as a background singer for Erykah Badu and now is a well-regarded indie songstress with two Stateside releases under her belt. Joining her on the bill will be D.C. area-based vocalist Tamara Wellons, who had a soulful house hit earlier this year, and Howard alumna April Hill, who this past weekend was named co-recipient of the SoulTracks Readers' Choice Award for New Artist of the Year. Shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. will be held at Bohemian Caverns. $15 in advance.

Thursday:
Thursday's show might be best described as a showcase of some of the more progressive hip-hop related music. Bless Roxwell, Ra the MC, OP Swamp 81, Eagle Nebula, and TK Wonder with Taylor McFerrin will set the mood with their left-of-center styles. The show will be at Bohemian Caverns. $10, 7 p.m.

Friday:
Tonight's showcase will feature a new crop of exciting female singers and one who achieved great success in the 1990s. Toronto's Ayah will be making her D.C. debut along with frequent visitor Liv Warfield and locals Alison Carney and YahZarah. Additionally, Jean Baylor of Zhane will be taking the Republic's stage. $15 in advance, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday:
This year's festival close out event will be held in downtown Silver Spring. Slated to perform are the skilled-beyond-her-years emcee Emoni Fela, Grammy-nominated R&B artist Emily King, soulful singer/keyboardist Angela Johnson, Josephine Silla, New York duo Nola Darling, Dehejia Maat, Yoko K./aphrodizia, Deborah Bond, Ne’a Posey, and Teisha Marie. Free, 4 p.m.