By Dan Emmons
So you keep hearing about all the really cool shows in Philly but you live outside the city. You don’t want to pay the gas, train tickets, price of admission and THEN your first drink. Well, we all know it gets a little pricey sometimes, but for Bucks County residents there is a special kept secret hiding away on Hanes road in Levittown.
That spot is called Rio. Far from the days of being another L-Town bar in a strip mall, Rio has taken on new management and a new concept. You will not find your standard taps, entertainment, or atmosphere that is typical of these suburban watering holes, oh no. Managers and brothers Sean and Kevin Salm have created a whole new music scene stemming from, what appears to be, the artistic revolution of the area.
The pride and joy of Rio is not the amazing craft beer selection on tap, the amazing specials (compared to local establishments) or the pizza spot adjacent to the building, but something Sean dreamt up called “Beats Rhymes and The Highlife”. It is a FREE monthly showcase that features up and coming hip hop artists both local and renown acts.
Starting with their first show in July 2013, Rio played host to all local artists LTC, Tony Two Step, Dear DJ, Davie Don’t Exist and The Taste of Vomit. Since then the monthly, which happens on every 2nd Friday, grew bigger and bigger. It wasn’t long until names like Chill Moody, Reef the Lost Cauze, Rich Quick, Voss, Milton, Biz Mighty, Skrewtape, DJ Kwestion of Jedi Mind Tricks and many others started getting booked at the venue.
There are NO spots locally that can compete with major bills like that and charge $0 at the door. Oh yeah, and they have $2 Highlife or PBR, $3 shots of Fireball Whiskey and the beloved “City-Wide” special, bringing the Fishtown Philly nightlife to Lower Bucks County. They even have local celebs, city celebs, and just all around attractive ladies guest bartend from time to time too!
So if your in the area, you can’t miss a 2nd Friday at Rio for these beloved “Beats Rhymes & Highlife” nights.
On March 14th you can expect to see an unbelievable bill featuring guys that have just performed on a sold out Union Transfer stage by the names of Reef The Lost Cauze and Stress the White Boy with the ever popular Rich Quick, Hip Pop lover boys CJ & Evan, Jonny on the Spot and local hero JoeFam.
So there are no more excuses for not coming out to a show. Break your routine and come be part of an amazing night. Check out some photos below of the Valentines Day Beats & Rhymes.
www.facebook.com/beatsrhymeshighlife
