The Beast

The Beast is an American alternative hip hop band from Durham, North Carolina, formed in 2007 by emcee Pierce Freelon, drummer Stephen Coffman, bassist Peter Kimosh, and pianist Eric Hirsh. Comprising graduates of UNC Chapel Hill, the group blends hip-hop with jazz and is best known for their 2010 album Freedom Suite, which was recorded alongside jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon. Throughout their career, they have released several projects including Silence Fiction and Woke, while collaborating with prominent artists such as 9th Wonder, Phonte, and Branford Marsalis.