With the current lack of a hip-hop scene in Ames and Iowa in general, hip-hop aficionados have nowhere to gather to hear the music they enjoy. This also makes finding a place to perform almost impossible for local hip-hop artists seeking to showcase their talents.

But the Boheme is helping to change that.

Boheme, 2900 West St., is refreshingly different from other bars and clubs across the country because it does not cater to only one group. Instead, every evening there is a different theme, ranging from Motown Night to World Fusion Night.

Last Tuesday, the Boheme gave the stage to Ames rapper Arecee (pronounced RC) for his CD release party. Along with Arecee came other young up-and-coming rappers from Iowa. Supplying many of the beats for the evening was DJ Jay-Vee on the 1&2s, or turntables.

The event was sponsored by Des Moines’ Hip-Hop Heaven, 2302 University Ave.

The evening began with sets from Tremayne, Team Liquid, Know1 and Gui Den, Antagonist and #12, and was followed by Arecee’s performance. To finish the show, all the MCs battled each other and individuals from the audience.

Arecee, who is originally from Ames, will soon be leaving for Boston to work on his second CD and to further his career as an MC.

In the past, he has experimented with other forms of expression, but “music is the most powerful medium for me, since I always have it on,” Arecee explains.

Currently, Arecee enjoys listening to Cannibal Ox, Atmosphere, Jedi Mind Tricks and other underground hip-hop artists.

Many of the MCs who performed at the Boheme Tuesday rarely get the chance to rock crowds since most bars and clubs refuse to let them perform.

However, all of the rappers appeared to be very comfortable with mics in their hands.

“If the artists keep their confidence levels up, there is a lot of money to be made,” said Marcus Goins, an audience member.

Boheme owner Pete Sherman says shows like these are about more than just the music.

“It’s all about love and energy,” he says.

More information about Arecee’s new album, “Direction For Children,” as well as music downloads and more are available at his Web site, www.arecee.com.