This was not a concert — it was a mother fucking party. At least that’s how Tech N9ne’s intro and hype man, Scenario, described Tech’s concert on Wednesday at the Rialto Theatre. All hyperbole aside, that’s the best way to describe it.

Tech N9ne could be the No. 1 independent rapper, but he deserves more popularity. Sure “Caribou Lou” is a great song for parties — and the drink is pretty tasty too — but he has 12 albums worth of music and another due out Nov. 8.

From a musical standpoint, Tech stacked his show with CCS Crew, an impressive local rap group that rapped almost as fast as Tech, the speed king himself. Tech’s tour partners Flawless, an act reminiscent of Drake — back when he was good — Eminem and Jay Rock, a throwback of classic west coast flow, then took to the stage.

Crowds then started to pour in as Tech appeared, wth a painted face and partners Krizz Kaliko and Kutt Calhoun in tow.

The trio performed a diverse array of Tech’s deep arsenal of music for most of the 90 minutes, but there were times when Kaliko and Calhoun rocked the stage solo. During those times though, the crowds never lost its interest, proving that the two are just as skilled.

Speaking of the crowd, the electricity of the audience contributed hugely to the quality of the show. One would be hard-pressed to find a more intense group of people.

But the feeling of safety among a group of hardcore fans was thanks to the performers’ insistence on everyone being a family. It was brought up at least three times that there shouldn’t be any fighting or animosity toward first-time show-goers — apparently that’s been a problem in the past. Regardless, everything was copasetic, as laced in between songs were oddly philosophical and deep speeches from the various artists, making for a truly intimate concert experience.

That isn’t to say everything was heavy. There was plenty of joking throughout the night as well. Tech certainly knows how to relax and let loose on a stage, and he can influence his audience to do the same. Some of the ladies in the crowd got very relaxed and gave Tech some “trophies” to take home at the end of the night, if you catch my meaning.

Tech also brought an extremely talented technical crew to the show, and whoever programmed the lights was a genius. Around eight multicolored lights put the show over the top. They did something different every track and never detracted from the performance.

It’s obvious Tech knows how to put on a show. His label, Strange Music, is overflowing with talent and his technicians — a nickname for his fans — are some of the most dedicated followers in music.

What it boils down to, in the end, is that if you are just now discovering your fandom of Tech N9ne, you’re about 13 years too late to the party.

— Jason Krell is a junior studying creative writing and Italian. He can be reached at arts@wildcat.arizona.edu.