Hard Knock Radio

DVT—Tongo Eisen-Martin, Damani Rhodes, and Vadia—discuss their powerful new album, Traveling Shoes.

On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sits down with members of DVT—Tongo Eisen-Martin, Damani Rhodes, and Vadia—to discuss their powerful new album, Traveling Shoes.

The conversation explores how the project blends poetry, music, and political consciousness to reflect the realities of Black life, resistance, and movement. Known for their deeply rooted connection to community struggles and cultural expression, the group breaks down the meaning behind Traveling Shoes—a title that evokes both physical journeys and the ongoing fight for justice and liberation.

Davey D guides a rich discussion on the role of art in times of social and political upheaval, and how DVT uses sound and spoken word as tools for storytelling, healing, and organizing. The artists also share insight into their creative process, the influences that shaped the album, and how their individual voices come together to form a collective vision grounded in truth and transformation.

This episode is a reflection on movement—across geography, generations, and consciousness—and a reminder of the enduring power of art to challenge, inspire, and uplift.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.