Hip-hop artist Sage Francis stopped by Portland, ME recently to support his new album Li(f)e. Credited as one of the forefathers of the "Indie Rap" genre, Sage delivered his own style of topical humor and high-octane energy. Rather than having a DJ on stage with him that would press play to begin the beat, Francis was supported by the band Free Moral Agents (featuring Isaiah Owens, keyboardist from The Mars Volta), who came equipped to blend the styles of hip-hop with the rocking sound of a full band. Most of the songs performed were from the new album, but some songs such as "Sea Lion" and "Crack Pipes" got a makeover as the band provided a more organic feel to the overall sound of the show.

When Sage Francis first appeared on stage, he wore a white wig and began making jokes about his new haircut. For the entirety of the show he was dressed well in a three-piece suit as he performed songs that contain playful puns, witty lyricism, and bits of spoken word. There were wise cracks at the expense of The Insane Clown Posse, made while fiddling around with a microphone and asking the audience, "Mic stands. How do they work?"

At the end of the set, Sage gave a humble thanks to everyone and proceeded into the audience to make his way back to the merch table, as the band continued the final song.

http://www.myspace.com/sagefrancis

Photographer: Billy Seidel