Tim Hardson, former member of the Los Angeles-based underground hip-hop group Pharcyde, will perform from his latest solo release "SlimKid3's Cafe" with local fans today at Common Grounds.

Hardson is backed by five-piece band Fuqawi on his new record, a soulful departure from scratchy DJ cuts and static beats. His previous solo album, "Liberation," featured tracks with such hip-hop icons as MC Lyte and Jurassic5's Charli 2na.

Hardson has remained true to the underground hip-hop scene joining other politically charged artists in an attempt to derail messages promoting the materialistic lifestyle associated with mainstream hip-hop stars, according to promoters.

Hip-hop and R&B acts Pigeon John, C-Rayz Walz and Kosha Dillz are scheduled to join Hardson at Common Grounds today.

Tickets are available for $10 at No Future Records and Common Grounds. Doors open at 9 p.m.

-Rebecca Goldman