A fixture on the local scene for the past ten years, Wallace Settles (aka Dirty Jones) is the promoter behind the local showcase Cruel Winter Fest, which takes place at the Grog Shop on Dec. 9.

This year’s incarnation of an event that’s billed as “the only annual independent hip-hop festival in Cleveland” will feature more than 15 diverse acts at the Grog Shop and B Side Liquor Lounge. Ohio Hip Hop Award winner Kris Hilton and prominent Cleveland hip-hop artist Walker OG will serve as the hosts.

DJ Corey Grand and DJ Chucky Supreme will spin between sets. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

This article appears in Nov 16-22, 2016.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.