Dorian and Devin Townsend have been brothers forever. They’ve also been the hip-hop duo Da Kreek since 2000. That’s when they decided to take their after-school antics to the next level.

Dorian (now DTown) and Devin (Mello Dee) used to meet some buddies on the way home to compare the rap rhymes they’d written at Rayen HS that day. When they first decided to try to make something of their music, they called themselves Killas From Da Kreek, for da the creek under the bridge in Crandall Park where they met.

They soon dropped “Killas,” because, even though the name sounded kool, “We’re not killers,” Mello Dee explained.

Growing up with their father’s music, Da Kreek’s style, which they call alternative hip-hop — with its jazz and synth elements — is “old school hip-hop vibe meets new school modern rap,” with socially conscious lyrics reflecting real life experiences. It is the continuing evolution of many influences, including video games.

DTown, who was hooked on Sega Genesis, says he still gets inspiration when he hits a snag by running video games with the sound off.

Nominees for multiple hip-hop awards, the brothers, both YSU students, share a passion for composing and producing music, although, on stage it’s their differences which are most noticeable. DTown, usually the frontman, is sharp and quick and tenor. Mello Dee, as his name suggests, is laid-back and down deep.

Da Kreek also sees the bigger picture. They partnered with friend and fellow rapper Keith Logan (2Fly) to form Yo Music Movement to promote the whole culture of hip-hop here. Yo stands for Youngstown, of course, and is also a call to a brotherhood of artists whose success will depend on mutual support.

Da Kreek stamped out their latest CD, Tinted Stanzas, in 2007 and produce The Lesson, a podcast of all hip-hop, all the time. They are committed to innovation and creativity, and treat obstacles as lessons for improvement. That has to be the way to make it.