Not familiar with slam? You should be. If not, then at least learn the rules: One, poetry is always told a capella. Two, slams are always shorter than three minutes (although no one really sticks to that one). Three, a poem slammed equals one free drink - if you're in a bar. Now you know, make sure you catch French sensation and enfant terrible Fabian Marsaud this month, as the slam poet brings urban culture to Music Hall. His alias, ‘Grand Corps Malade’ (Big Sick Body), refers to both his 196cm stature and the time he was told he’d never be able to walk again after a bad dive in a pool. Thankfully for us, after a year of treatment, GCM was able to walk again and infused his experiences into his slam poetry – his looming presence only makes for a more powerful performance. Making his first cultural appearance in Paris in 2003, the slammer led workshops to introduce youngsters in his local community to the art of slam poetry. Soon after his friend, S Petit Nico, offered to set his poetry to music. The beginning of a beautiful partnership, since then Marsaud has released two albums, winning him two Victoires de la Musique. He's also appeared on several other albums, contributing poetry and stories that flow naturally from his amalgam of cultural observations – making his slam like a beautiful slap in the face. So, witness the talent firsthand and try to keep up with his urban jargon and slang that'll take you back to that Parisian quartier (even if you've never been). Rita Harbie