It has the potential to be the biggest rap show of the year for Victoria. Even with two key members missing – Eminem and Proof – D12 remains one of the genre’s best-known groups, aside from Wu Tang Clan and N.W.A.

The group rose to fame on the heels of member Eminem, who isn’t expected to perform at Element nightclub Sunday (Nov. 30), but arrives unexpectedly on rare occasions. Detroit-based D12’s major label debut, Devil’s Night, was released in 2001 and went platinum in both the U.S. (one million CD’s sold) and the U.K.(300,000).

Much of the group’s hype came from Eminem, who released two of his biggest solo albums, The Marshall Mathers LP and The Eminem Show, before and after D12’s debut.

The group is also no stranger to tragedy and controversy. Original member Bugz was shot to death in 1999 as was Proof, a close friend to Eminem, in 2006.

Another member, Swift, was jailed for drunk driving in 2006 and the group has feuded publicly with Detroit rapper Royce Da 5’9” – who is actually performing on the bill in Victoria. The feud has since been patched up, as D12 and Royce have collaborated on numerous tracks, aside from touring on their current Never Say Never Tour.

Also on the bill is American rapper Joe Budden, who released his debut self-titled album in 2003. The Canadian contingent in the show is filled by Maestro, who became the first Canuck rapper to have a Top 40 hit with 1989’s “Let Your Backbone Slide” (as Maestro Fresh Wes). He has since released seven albums, including a greatest hits compilation titled Urban Landmark: 1989-2005.

There will be two shows on Sunday, an all ages show at 6:30 p.m. and a 19-over show at 10 (doors open at 9). Element is at 919 Douglas St. Tickets are available at Platinum Lounge in the Mayfair Mall, Aspens in Hillside Mall, Lyle’s Place, Complex, at the door if available and online at http://www.ticketweb.ca.

patrickb@vicnews.com