Problem Kids

Just one spin of PK and it’s apparent they are a true product of their culturally-diverse, frenetic environment. Is it Island Hop? Tropical Urban? Nu Wave Rap?! Label them what you will, but with a fiery mix of street-wise “Spanglish” rhymes, pulsating beats, and luscious sing-along melodies, one thing is for certain - these Kids aren’t playing around.

PK's undeniably fresh sound is characterized by the group’s willingness to bounce effortlessly between vintage hip-hop, roots rock, and Caribbean salsa rhythms without missing a step. For some, this could prove to be a messy mix, yet the band's crafty songwriting and keen awareness of musical space allow their disparate influences to blend together seamlessly. With creative arrangements and catchy melodies in place, the storytelling lyricism from two witty emcees seal the signature PK sound. Whether calling to mind the pain of communist struggle from their Cuban forefathers, or reciting coming-of-age tales of youth in sunny paradise, the captivating rhymes ensure their listeners are moved through both thought and sound.

But it’s not just their music alone that defines PK. In a city that relishes its stature as an non-stop entertainment destination and a multicultural hub, The Problem Kids’ live show embodies that true Miami spirit, uplifting their audience on a thrill ride thru the Magic City... borrowing scenes from the throbbing night clubs of South Beach, the rhythmic streets of Little Havana, and even the urban artistry of the mural-filled Wynwood district.

The PK live experience is THE raucous, all-night private party you want to be at - and luckily, everyone is invited. With a stunning display of musicianship, stage presence, and pin-point vocal accuracy, The Problem Kids pride themselves on engaging their audience wholeheartedly through a sick stage show.

The band’s line-up is a mix of some of city’s most reputable musicians, coming together from a variety of former groups. Drummer Nick Lebess and saxophonist/keyboardist Humberto Casanova bring many years of road experience having performed with veteran jazz/rock outfit Day Music Died. Bassist Eddy Davis and guitarist Omar Williams joined forces early on with alternative pop group Addax, while emcees Marty Obregon and Tish Martinez began writing together as The Dream Team in college.

In 2010, The Problem Kids dropped their first full-length album, Poetry in Motion, which introduced the masses to their vibrant sound and featured some of Miami’s top emerging talent including songstress Anna Palmerola on the track “Ride with Me,” and rising reggae artist AG Lyonz on “Hold Me Down.” The album was well-received with local press, and catapulted the group to a busy show schedule, which included opening slots for hip-hop legends Chuck D, Uncle Luke, Rakim and more in 2012 alone.

Though the group cherishes the accolades they’ve received thus far, PK has kept their nose to grind, meticulously crafting their highly-anticipated sophomore EP (due out late 2014). In the words of emcee Marty, their “storytelling qualities got the whole city on their toes,” which is certainly the case until the next Problem Kids chapter is revealed.