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Mazon performs songs from his new mixtape. Photo by Leon Laing.

Mazon’s recent listening session wasn’t held at a typical venue for a local rapper.

During the intimate event at the Midtown Scholar Bookstore, three area rugs adorned the wooden stage. A mural appeared above. Books authored by literary greats, such as T.S. Eliot, Emily Dickinson and Ralph Ellison, lined the shelves. 

Mazon, a laid-back MC/producer/songwriter, delivers conscious and introspective lyrics. So it was no surprise that he held his listening session at a Harrisburg-based bookstore/coffeehouse. On Jan. 21, Mazon gave a taste of his Maintaining mixtape — a project he dropped today.

Before Mazon kicked off the event, his manager, Jonelle Fletcher, asked the audience to tweet their opinions after they heard each song. “Drug” samples Sade’s 1988 gem “Love is Stronger Than Pride.” On the up-tempo, jazzy “Harlem Renaissance,” Mazon shines as an MC—as well a producer.  Overall, the solid mixtape proves that the budding artist has the potential to appeal to a national audience.

The 22-year-old Harrisburg native, who currently resides in Philly, told our website that he admires artists who rap and produce. “You can’t ignore Kanye,” he affirmed. “I like J. Dilla.” The local rapper also digs new-school rappers/producers  including Big K.R.I.T. and J. Cole. Mazon said rappers/producers have more control of their sound.

When asked how far he wants to take his rap career, the rhyme spitter said he wants to succeed without compromising. “I wanna get as big as I can,” Mazon explained. “Keep it 100 percent Mazon.”

See below for more pics.

Mazon (right) and Damani. Photo by Leon Laing.

Mazon's sneaker. Photo by Leon Laing.

Bookstore sign. Photo by Leon Laing.