Talib Kweli

The offspring of two college professors, Brooklyn-hailing MC Talib Kweli is known for his sociopolitical observations and witty lyrics. After attending a prestigious Connecticut boarding school and studying experimental theater at NYU, Kweli turned his focus to music and established himself as one of the most conscientious rappers to capture mainstream media attention. The downside? He reminds us of it every fucking chance he gets. “If lyrics sold/then truth be told/I’d probably be just as rich and famous as Jay-Z,” he rapped on . . . well, it seems like that’s what he raps on every other track he creates. On tour behind his current album, Eardrum, the undeniably talented Kweli shares his erudite rhymes again tonight. With openers Common Market, Gabriel Teodros, and Grayskul. Showbox, 1426 First Ave., 528-3151. www.showboxonline.com. $27. 9 p.m. ERIKA HOBART

Sun., June 15, 9 p.m., 2008