A Pound for Pound Hiatus

Have you missed me, dear reader? Has it been awful without me? Have you been lost with your nights out and unable to shake your ass to filthy music? I hope so, as I've been lost without you. The unheralded backbone of Pound for Pound, my Macintosh G4, has shut down. Literally. The power adaptor socket is not working and the computer cannot charge. In other words, she's in the shop for repairs. Even moreso, I need a little break to get my shit together. I just moved, I need to refocus my writing game and I need to stop being so damn melancholy. I recently saw this woman who worked at the Burger King on Delancey Street and nearly began to cry; that was soon topped by a moment with a cat up for adoption in Park Slope who reached out and gently touched my finger twice when i put it near the cage.

Annnnyyyyyway, this means that we will have to take a break from the music posts for a few days. For long-time readers, this will hearken back to the dark period of November 2005, when my computer was stolen and the site came to a halt because of some LES jagoff criminal. Ahh, memories. Sweet, traumatic, terrifying memories.

Anyway, let's meet back here on Monday. I can't guarantee music then, but I will resume the party news and have a few posts on mixes that I love and you should buy and maybe some other fun link-y goodness. I'm really sorry for this, but trust me this break is only going to mean better things down the road. Will you miss me? Say you will, please. You will miss me? Yea!

-First off, happy belated birthday to my LA girl z. I hope that she had a great party with lots of chocalate, Daft Punk and well-endowed men. She's one of the best people on earth, she has forgotten more about music than I'll know and she needs to move to the East ASAP. Check out her blog, (Hey You) What's That Sound?, and tell her to post more!

-Black People Love Us! Read the letters section, hilarious to read the ones where the letter writer has no clue if it's a joke or not, so gives props and hate in the same letter.

-Fellas, David Wygant has 10 tips for approaching women. I'm pretty confident that these will work, as what's easier than having 10 concepts running through your head while you're trying to talk to someone. "I hope you saved some turkey for me." Indeed.

Special High Voltage, new Long Beach party, Broadzilla & Client and more

Okay, okay, I jock this party too much. Blah blah blah, I'm lame, I'm gay, bleep blorp. Listen, this is one of my favorite parties, High Voltage, by one of my favorite dudes, Dimitry, and tonight he's joined by two more favorites in the form of Men, Women and Children's Nick Hook and the Philadelphyinz's Skinny Friedman. That's called the perfect storm and you don't need Marky fucking Mark to tell you that this is the place to be. Oh wait, did I mention the special surprise guest, playing a live set? Oh, I didn't, my mistake. Yeah, on top of all of this goodness, Yo Majesty will play a set to show that they aren't just some blog hype mirage. You know the deal, Sutra (1st Ave btwn 1st and 2nd Sts), free, open vodka bar from 11-it's gone, hosted by Jason Hates You, lots of cute girls, some cute dudes, a great Wednesday downtown.

-You can also make a stop downtown at this month's edition of Hopchank, the last Wednesday monthly at Happy Ending (302 Broome St.). Residents DJ Reverend McFly and Morsy are joined by Sweatshop Labor's DJ Johnsville [sic on the flier] for a night of limitless possibilites - dance, baile, indie, you name it, they'll drop it and make your night better. Oh, free PBR from 10-11, get there early, alky!



-Across the country, there's a new monthly starting in downtown Long Beach and it's called Redd. This is an exciting one, as it's been in the works for quite some time, it's at a new venue and it's the continued move-making of some up-and-coming LA dudes. DJs S!n, Luv Tek and Paparazzi are the residents for this one, you should recognize those names from here as we've been talking about them a lot recently. It all happens at Sevilla Nightclub (140 Pine Ave.), 18+, this is your new Wednesday weekly.



-Of course, there's also old reliable in the form of Club Moscow at Boardners (1652 N. Cherokee) right on the Hollywood Strip. DJs Paul and Raulie along with host Keith Wilson have put together an essential weekly for LA, especially great flier this week.



-I don't much about this midweek party, but I've got a good feeling about it. Future Days happens tonight at Upstairs at Sal's (12th & Walnut) and it sounds like its a chance to let your freak flag fly. DJs John and Liam promise "indie.drugrock.psychgaze.electricfreakout" music and while that's not our standard fare here, I can get into this. Good to see Sal's pushing the envelope still, request "Dark Star" when you go.



-Finally, Sal's superstars Broadzilla, the Thursday night DJ crew and party par excellance, are going to be spinning with electroclash vixens Client. It goes down at The North Star (2639 Poplar St.) for a measly 10 bucks. I'll have to put up some Client, but this is for fans of the electrorock stuff today, cold, detached music that we'll remind you why you're dead to the world. Buy tickets here, good show.

Booka Shade - Essential Mix 07.02.06

Booka Shade, Essential Mix for BBC Radio 1 July 2, 2006 (tracklisting)

Ugh, crazy weekend. I've lost access to wireless at home, so look for massive bursts here and there for the next day or three. I'm working now in a cafe with . I'll have a later post filled with neuroses and unrequited love, but for now, I want to put up our weekly long mix from one of the big names of dance music.

This time, it's a name that we haven't mentioned here before, although I have repeatedly stated my intention to cover them, their label and their scene. Booka Shade have actually been around for a long time, unbeknownst to me. They started out in the early 90s as a synth pop act, moved onto trance in the mid 90s, before setting up their label, Get Physical, with M.A.N.D.Y. and DJ T at the end of the decade. A few years later, they would drop some of the biggest tunes of the year in the form of "Mandarine Girl" and "Body Language," creating some of the most beautiful house music ever. They haven't let up much since then, with a few more huge tunes, remixes, their live show.

This is their Essential Mix for BBC's Radio 1 from July 2, 2006, it's a unique one in that you get a live band set for the first hour, recorded in some BBC studio. The second hour is a DJ mix, as the boys take you through soulful house or whatever you want to call it. I really like it, both parts. Whenever I think of 'dance music,' this is the sound I imagine. It's not necessarily what I want to hear or what I consider the best, it's just got that beautiful, melodic house sound that I associate with dance music. It reminds me of disco stripped of the instruments with a more incessant beat, very nice. I'm gonna try to do a better job talking about this scene, as there's some great stuff going on that doesn't involve talking about blow jobs and asses. Hard to believe, but it's true. Hope you like the mix, more to come.

Era Disco, DJ Funk and more

This one was a pretty easy call tonight. DJ Funk is spinning at the special Memorial Day weekend edition of Era Disco. This one's appropriately called Bounce Dat Ass and there's no other place LA people should be. I mean, it's DJ fucking Funk, you have off tomorrow, you're just going to go some lame barbecue anyway, so you can be hungover. Head out to 3252 Mission Inn in Riverside, I'm not totally sure if the name of the club is [club] ERA or if the night is ERA, but who gives a shit? It's DJ Funk! Oh, and you also get LA's own Paparazzi, who I mention here like 20 times a week and the residents DJ S!n and Luv Tek, who are going to be a real force to reckon with in LA. $5 before 11, get there early.

-Also make sure to hit up Le Disko LA-ers, as Daniel, Keith 2.0 and special guests Royal Rumble give it to you raw, indie raw. This is one of the best weeklies anywhere, still going strong at their venue, The Spider Club (1735 Vine St.) It's free with a flier before 12, $5 after, atsa deal!




-Damn, LA is just killing it. Here's a late addition, thanks to my girl z. for this one and thanks for her super adorable new flick, it's a party called Part Time Punks, a weekly jawn at The Echo (1822 Sunset Blvd) dedicated to "obscure and classic music coming out of America, the UK and Europe from 1977 to the present: Punk, Post-punk, Punk-funk, New Wave, No Wave, Indie-Pop, Twee, Grunge, Electro, Minimal-Synth, Shoegaze, Baggy, etc.." A look at past fliers suggest that they have a special place for the no-wave, Factory Records, late 70s, early 80s period that is so dear to this blog. Tonight, Tussle and Yacht play live, doors at 10, rsvp bennyshambles@sbcglobal.net, 18+, we'll have more to say on this party fa sho.


-Same state, different city. The Ladytron DJ tour rolls on, as the duo hits up San Francisco, where they're joined by Sleazemore of Lights Down Low. I caught them at Hiro in NYC Thursday night and was pleasantly surprised, particularly considering my low opinion of non-DJ DJs. Head to the Rickshaw Stop (155 Fell St.), Blasthaus has the tickets and info.



-Finally, there's a party tonight at Key West (207 S. Juniper St.). You know how much I love that place and its amazing dancefloor and sleazy vibe, you know how much I love JHN RDN and Thom from Broadzilla, so you know I must love this Sunday night one-off. Diamond Girl from Hands & Knees and Kyle from Bleached Black are also spinning, it's free, you'll love it.

Philadelphyinz - The Bar Mitzvah Mixtape

Apt One and Skinny Friedman Present Philadelphyinz: The Bar Mitzvah

They had me at Bar Mitzvah. I actually referenced this mix and party last Saturday, a premature listing that was solely a result of my excitement to get the news about this one and the gradual deterioration of my mental capacities from self-loathing and years of listening to much bass music. For real, I've been floored at the quality of mixes coming my way from the DJs that I love. The Philadelphyinz don't disappoint here with The Bar Mitzvah mixtape, as I've been listening to this one all week.

First off, the Philadelphyinz are DJs Apt One and Skinny Friedman, who throw two monthlies in Philly at the Khyber and Medusa. I've always wondered where the name came and I've finally learned that "yinz" is a Pittsburgh term for "y'all." Apt One used it to connect to his roots when he set up his party in Philly in 2005, Skinny would soon join in and the rest is history.

The first and most brilliant concept is that they've done it in four tracks, alternating between the 2 DJs, in the format of an actual party, i.e. 10pm, 11pm... The mix is superb, I'm amazed at how seamless and put-together it is. I'm not normally much of a nerd about shit like that, but there's so many genre-switches and shorter interludes that you can't but help but notice. It covers all sorts of ground from rap to dance to indie (the Regina Spektor tune, marvelous). What really makes this one special for me is that they cover a lot of older, Pound for Pound-y stuff, like Gigolo Tony, Giorgio Moroder and Egyptian Lover. While I love the newest of the new (and that's on here too), there's something nice about seeing music as more than just this moment.

For those in Philly, you have a chance to celebrate the release of the mix, Apt One's birthday and Memorial Day weekend tonight at the Khyber (56 S. 2nd St.). This is the OG Philadelphyinz, upstairs, free, cheap drinks, dark, dirty dancefloor, the whole nine yards. They're joined tonight by the suddenly and thankfully resurgent Mike T of Paradise at Key West, so you can expect lots of filthy bass tonight. You also get a free CD just by attending. There's really nowhere else you should be tonight.



I cannot recommend the Philadelphyinz more, another of the great DJs that deserve a much greater audience. Get at them on myspace, email them at philadelphyinz@gmail.com, book them for your next party or bar mitzvah, say hi, thank them for the mix. I'll definitely keep you up-to-date on their future moves. I'mma try to talk the boys into doing a Purim mix, cross your fingers.

New Check Yo Ponytail

One of our favorite parties anywhere is back tonight on a new night in a new venue. Check Yo' Ponytail is taking over Saturday nights in LA, doing their thing at the Echoplex (1154 Glendale Blvd) and they're kicking it off with a bang. Crystal Castles is the special guests, along with Purple Crush, joining the resident DJs Franki Chan and Paparazzi. This is another Iheartcomix jawn, as they're joined by Urb, Viva La Rock and The Echo in trying to make the kids dance. Also, awesome flier, nice to see another breast-obsessed person making moves out there. Take a bow if you made this.

-Or, you can welcome on of NYC's finest, as Nick Catchdubs is the special guest at Certified at The Mountain Bar (473 Gin Ling Way). Don't know much about this party, whether it's a regular thing or a one-night only, but I do know that Nick will kill and this is a chance to finally mention the Evans and Eagles bols, who are also spinning tonight. RSVP at Certified.LA@gmail.com, no cover, lovely.



-It's a serious LA night, so Los Angelenos, make sure to stop by Safari Sam's (5214 Sunset Blvd) for Club Moscow vs Hang the DJs. Since I'm assuming that's a Smiths reference, I'm pulling for the Hang the DJs crew. The battle line has been drawn.



-San Jose

-Moving to the center of this misguided country, my bol Soviet Panda continues to try to put us on the right track with his Too Much Love party. Minneapolis, get behind this, it's an amazing party. Tonight, Panda's joined by Blk:Mrkt and Nyteowl for a night of raviness, going down as always at First Avenue (710 First Avenue North).



-Chicago, have you almost let the month May pass by without celebrating Masterbation Awareness Month? Well, lucky for you Mother Hubbard and Miss Gab are doing their Pussy Galore Summer Camp in honor of it tonight. Get to the SubT Lounge (2011 W. North Ave.) for free lube, great tunes and g-d knows what else. No cover.



-Hot Fucking Pink seems to singlehandedly be trying to save Boston. They continue tonight with their Saturday night party at Axis (13 Landsdowne St). This one's extra dope, as Todd Fink and Jacob Thiel of The Faint are stopping by after their show Avalon to spin a DJ set. I mean, really Boston, where else could you possibly wanna be tonight? Residents Michael Savant and Knowlton Walsh are reason enough to his this one up. RSVP to michaelsavant@yahoo.com for $5 admission, free with a ticket to The Faint show.



-New York City, a new monthly is going down at Rififi starring the Flagrant Fowl people - Cousin Cole and Pocketknife. Not only is tonight the kickoff, it's also Cole's birthday. To celebrate, they've brought in Krames of Richmond's Cobra Kai for guest set, along with Dainjah from Sweden. Oh, and you can't forget Miss MK of the Hot Hens, who opens the night.



-Last but certainly not least, A Fly Is On The Wall presents the 1st Anniversary Ipod Battle at the Cabaret Just For Laughs (2111 St. Laurent) in Montreal. Best of all, Brooklyn's finest A Finger On The Pulse are battling it out with a ton of other crews like Jokers Of The Scene, Lessies On X, Nu Ravers On The Block and many more, this is gonna be a crazy night, I feel. Peep the flier too, as it's simply amazing.

Claude VonStroke - Deep Throat

Claude VonStroke, "Deep Throat (original mix)" (YSI link)

Claude VonStroke, "Deep Throat (DJ Sneak Stroky mix)" (YSI link)

I caught the Dirty Bird jawn at APT last night and just had to put up some more of their music. It really was one of the best DJ nights I've heard in ages, their sound is exactly what I'm hearing in my head right now. It seems to get labeled as techno, but it doesn't have that strictness that I associate with that genre. Maybe house? I definitely am reminded of Dave Taylor, a.k.a. Switch, when I hear Claude VonStroke's productions and remixes - the huge, farting basslines, the house rhythms, the cut-up vocals. Honestly, it's all I really want in my life right now. I cannot recommend the APT monthly more, although that's a strange venue. Gorgeous design, a little pricey, a little too nice, definitely a lot too Meatpacking District.

Here's his earliest single, "Deep Throat," a nice follow-up to the sexually explicit song yesterday. This one is reminiscent of his amazing "The Whistler," a slow burn booty track. This one features a hook based on a throat clearing of sorts.

The Last Paradise at Key West

This is a sad listing, as the final Paradise at Key West ever in Philadelphia. This party has been going for more than a year, with DJs Mike T, Ron Morelli and guests like Tim Sweeney, Optimo, Jeffrey Ssfire and many others bringing back the spirit of the disco days. It was kind of a dream night for me, a chance to hear amazing DJs play italo, disco, acid, Miami bass in an amazing club. Key West (207 S. Juniper St.) is a gay bar on a side street, almost alley, with an upstairs that has a mirrored, sunken dancefloor, elevated DJ booth, disco ball, in other words, the greatest venue still around in the world.

Anyway, this last one will hopefully send things out on a filthy note. Ron Morelli will be back, Mike T is celebrating a birthday, there will be special guests, tears will be shed, Arthur Baker songs will be played, all will be good. We'll definitely let you know what these guys have in store next. The rest of y'all will need to step your games up and fill in that the giant 808 hole that's being left after tonight.

Kampfire Killaz, Kudu live!, Ladyton

Co-events of the night, one I'll be at, one I wish I could be at. Let's give some more love to the Chicago people first, as this Debonair party tonight seems like a who's who of the scene. Kampfire Killaz, Bald Eagle, DJ Major Taylor (from Philly, m'f'ers), Jordan Z and a special guest are holding it down in the basement, while the Dark Wave Disco-ers - Mark Gertz and Trancid - join DJ Cat upstairs. All to celebrate Misa's birthday. I do not know her, but clearly she's an amazing person if all of these people are putting together her b-day party. There's no cover, some drink specials, I'd be there if I lived in Chicago. For those that do, just head to the Debonair Social Club (1575 N. Milwaukee Ave) and bring a gift for the birfday girl!

-So...my favorite band is the world is playing tonight in New York City. Kudu is opening the Cheeky Bastard Thursday night party and I cannot recommend more highly getting to the club early and catching them play. After that, you get a special DJ set by the Ladytron-ers, along with Alex English and Peter Makebish. It's brought to you by everyone who's someone in NYC - GBH, East Village Radio, Girlie Action, Filter. Best of all, they have Sparks! I'll be there tonight, say hi as I'll probably be solo and desperately looking for company.



-Okay, I'm really psyched for this one, as the Dirty Bird residency officially begins tonight at APT (419 W. 13th St.). Claude VonStroke and crew will be coming to the club every final Thursday, tonight VonStroke is joined by Christian Martin and [sic]. I cannot tell you how much I need a night of dirty techno in my life right now. 10 bucks, it goes late, see ya there!



-All the way downtown, Project Matt joins the Sweatshop Labor's Lucas Walters and Rev McFly for their weekly Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St.) Thursday night party, Common Folk. You know this'll be good, no weekend crowd!



-Philly's own dirty birds, Broadzilla, continue to take over the city one Thursday at a time. Hit this one up at Upstairs at Sal's before you slide over to the final Paradise. They're like 2 blocks apart, so no excuses.



-On the opposite coast, a new weekly in LA has sprung up and it's called Swerve. It's got my bol Daniel from Le Disko as resident DJ, so I know that this is a safe bet. It goes down at Scorpion (6679 Hollywood Blvd), no clue on cost.



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Khia - My Neck, My Back

Khia, "My Neck, My Back (original)" (YSI link) 320 DJs

Khia, "My Neck, My Back (Tom Neville X-Rated mix)" (YSI link)

Khia, "My Neck, My Back (Tobi Neumann remix)"

Khia, "My Neck, My Back (Kardinal Beats remix)" (YSI link)

Dimitry's mix reminded me that I've been meaning to do a post on one of the classic songs of all-time, Khia's "My Neck, My Back (Lick It)." I mean, for real, this is just perfect. The original starts off with these sick, minimalist drum snares and Ms. Khia talking about popping your pussy and it's on. An equally minimalist bass comes in, some percussion and keys and you have one of the dirtiest song ever done by a female artist. I love it, love the fact that she's talking about sex and getting a guy to take care of her and being dirty and filthy. It's the perfect addition to the whole booty genre, a nice challege to the boys' only vibe of that shit.

Make sure to check out the two house, dance remixes by Tom Neville and Tobi Neumann. While I still love the more minimalist, hip-hop take of the original, these ones keep growing on me. In particular, the Tom Neville one is just a rager, gets a head of steam and just goes. The Kardinal Beats one is a reggae rework, doesn't work for me. Make sure to buy her LP, Thugs and Misses, and I'll let you know when the next album drops. Supposedly this summer, but I'll believe it when I see it.

DJ Dimitry - Takes Flight Mix

DJ Dimitry, Takes Flight mix

Oh mang, all of my favorites are starting to drop mixes for our eternal joy and happiness. I've been talking about my bol Dimitry almost since I started discussing parties. It's not a coincidence, as my man is involved in more dope shit in New York City than I can remember. Let's see, his Wednesday night High Voltage party at Sutra, hosting Thursdays at Hiro, DJing Saturdays at Beauty Bar, his band Theo and the Skyscrapers, guest DJing at Trash and other NYC parties, he's a one man wrecking crew. All of that hard work has really paid off, as his DJ sets are better and better each time I hear them.

This Takes Flight mix is the ultimate proof, as it's a good sense of what direction he's been heading in lately with the indie dance remix tracks. You get some obscure jawns, some new "classics", but most of all you just get a great 30 minute mix. What I especially like about this one, and Dimitry's style in general, is his openness to the pop side of things (cf Gwen Stefani's "Sweet Escape"); in other words, it isn't all about dropping the newest or most obscure B side remix, it's more about keeping the dancefloor involved and happy. Mang, this one really gets better with each listen, like really.

For those in NYC, you have a chance to hear all of this live, as Dimitry spins tonight at his weekly High Voltage party. I've been hyping this Day 1, I ain't about to stop now. Tonight's another good one, as FUN resident Eamon Harkin and Peter of Bloodshot Revival are the special guest DJs, which means another great night in the East Village (and how often can you say that?). As usual, vodka open bar starting 11, lots of young, better-looking people, people dancing, you know, a fun time! Oh, really great flier here by Sam Bell.



I hope that this becomes a regular stop for all my NYCers. For the rest of you party promoters and DJs, I cannot recommend Dimitry more highly as a guest star and all-around good dude. Get at him on myspace, book him, thank him for the mix, become BFF. I'm sure that this is not the last mention here at P4P.

Claude VonStroke! Fluid 10th Anniversary! Man Man in Chinatown NYC!

Well, that subject pretty much sums it up for tonight. For real, it's a light night in terms of quantity, but holy $#\% the quality is straight, uncut, 100%. First up, it's a special night in Philly, as South Street club Fluid celebrates its 10th Anniversary with an a-may-zing night of dance music. Claude VonStroke makes his first Philly appearance, which is cause for celebration on its own. We've posted about him here at Pound for Pound, dude is absolutely killing it with his filthy, booty techno or whatever you want to call it. His live sets are just as highly regarded. Combine that with Dave P and Diamond Girl of Hands and Knees and you have blast-off. RSVP for reduced $5 admission, this is a night to remember, Philadelphia. Don't believe me, believe this dude who wrote a preview of Fluid's 10th Anniversary week for the Philadelphia Weekly.

-Before you hit up High Voltage, head down to Chinatown for special concert by Man Man. For anyone who knows the Philly band, it should come as no surprise that this show takes place at a dim sum palace after a 12 course dinner. Unfortunately, the dinner reservations are all taken, but you can still hit up the show afterwards for $10, starting at 9pm. I caught them at the Bowery in the winter and it was one of the best shows I've seen, in spite of having to hide in the back of the hall out of fear that my ex-gf was in attendance. This is what I'm talking about NYC!

-It looks like that's about it, but rest assured that this weekend looks like the weekend that will never die. So much happening, music coming up later tonight.

Happy Birthday Moz

Morrissey, Live at Dublin National Stadium Dublin, Ireland 04.27.91

That's right, it's May 22, a world holiday at Pound for Pound, the day that Stephen Morrissey was born. I've been imploring the UN to recognize this day and give everyone the day off from work, but so far no luck. If we don't honor the greatest singer of all-time from the greatest band of all-time, i'm not really sure what we're doing, but I assume that the terrorists are winning.

I want to thank Moz on this special day for all of the amazing music he's given us over the years. He's made my horrible break-ups manageable, he's validated my bleak worldview, he's provided a soundtrack for my life, writing some of the greatest songs I know. I don't think that one meager post can ever express the love and gratitude I have for the man (and yes, Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce).

As an expression of my love and gratitude to you my dear reader, above is a complete live show from Morrissey. It comes from the classic early period, a few years after the demise of The Smiths.

Outdanced 1 Year Anniversary, Crystal Castles and more

Sorry for the slow party announcements, I've been swamped with work and exhaustion from a long, crazy, fun weekend. But, those are excuses and there are no excuses when it comes to a hedonistic party life. Back out to Chicago for the pick of the night and it's another Windy City birthday. Outdanced celebrates its first anniversary and they're doing it in style with a special set by Crystal Castles. I'm a huge fan of this duo, but that's not the only treat. There's also a live set by Heart Shaped Hate, a set by DJ Autobot of Flosstradamus and Ian Hixxx. Most importantly, there's an open bar from 10-11, which means that you can't be fashionably late. So put on your skinny jeans and get to The Funky Buddha (728 W. Grand Ave.), rsvp to outdanced@yahoo.com for reduced admission. Yeah.

-Check Yo' Ponytail is back in Los Angeles, new and improved. It took a month or so off, returning tonight in a new spot but with the same amazing DJs and special guests. This one features the Spank Rock DJs, Devlin and Darko, which means a night of Baltimore bangers. You also get Pretty Titty, Franki Chan, DJ Pubes, photos by shadowscene, and a chance to be at one of the best parties in the country. It's at The Echo (1822 W. Sunset Blvd), more to come on this party for sure.


-Up the coast, Hold Yr Horses goes down at Aunt Charlie's (133 Turk & Taylor) or its bi-monthly slot. Tonight, you get a special set by Sleazemore, who join bigstereo.net's Rchrd Oh?! $3 for a night of fun.



-Tuesday's the night for freaks to come out in Philly. First up, Steven Bloodbath does his weekly Love Buzz at Bar Noir (112 S. 18th St.) with all of the rock and metal you can handle.



-Finally, my bols rekLes and seanmotherfuckinroberts, a.k.a. the lewd bols, continue to do the damn thing. They've got The Bravery on their minds this week and next. Tonight's the album release party. Even cooler, if you go and rsvp at their going entry, you'll be entered to win 2 free tickets to The Bravery show next Tuesday at Irving Plaza. Free tickets! Just click this link and rsvp, then show up to The Annex (152 Orchard St.) and wait for the winning name to be drawn. While waiting, drink and listen to great music and get your pic taken by Brad Walsh. Then, when you win, celebrate like the craziest fuck on the Price Is Right and know that this is your summer of George.

Mark Ronson - Stop Me

Mark Ronson feat. Daniel Merriweather, "Stop Me" (YSI link)

Mark Ronson, "Stop Me (Chicken Lips remix)" (YSI link)

Mark Ronson, "Stop Me (Dirty South remix)" (YSI link)

The Smiths, "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before" (YSI link)

Coldplay, "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before[live]" (YSI link)

It's all Mark Ronson all the time at Pound for Pound. Well, I wasn't really planning to say a whole lot more about the man and his music, but he clearly didn't want that to happen. His soon-to-be released album, Version, which features club interpretations of cover songs. What caught my eye, and clearly proves that Ronson is a reader here, is his inclusion of an interpretation of The Smiths' "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before." I mean, dude knew that this is the only guaranteed way to get coverage here. Well-played, Mark, well-played.

Seriously, the album sounds really interesting, can't wait to hear what he's been able to cook up with P4P favorites like Lily Allen and Amy Winehouse. However, I can't say that I'm a huge fan of this "Stop Me." What really ruins it for me is the ending, where suddenly we get a version of the Motown classic, The Supreme's "You Just Keep Me Hanging On." It's a seamless transition, but it just seems a little too cute for my taste. Do those two songs really need to be stitch together? I do love the string sounds on this one, turning the song into a soulful affair, letting guest Daniel Merriweather sing it out. I don't know, maybe I'm being a baby about this one. Let me know what you think, as it probably works a lot better than I'm writing here. Go here and grab an import version of the new album or put in an advance order for the domestic release mid-summer for a cheaper price.

The remixes are stellar, both really making these dancefloor friendly. The Chicken Lips remix is my favorite, an amazing transformation that sounds so beautiful and lush. Those strings with the house beats works perfectly, almost wish they'd take the vocals out. The Dirty South remix is more suited to our normal fare, featuring a creaking-door bass that is siiiiiiccccckkkk. This is the one for the club imo, do it up right.

I couldn't help but take this chance to add a few treats from The Smiths side of the song. There's the original, which is easiest to find on Strangeways, Here We Come, the band's final album. While that album was hastily put together, it's still better than most shit. "Stop Me" is one of the most interesting songs, brilliant lyrics about love, lies and pain, a nice upbeat pace, wonderful sound. Buy it immediately if you don't own it already. Finally, there's a Coldplay live cover, which I believe comes from Oct. 29, 2002 at OxFam Fairplay gig. With this one song choice, Chris Martin makes up for marrying that fake-Brit, pretentious Gwyneth Paltrow. All is forgiven. Enjoy, people, this post foreshadows the next one today in a wonderful way.

Mark Ronson - Essential Mix 01.01.07

Mark Ronson, Essential Mix for BBC Radio One 01.01.07

It seemed like people are into the long mixes that I've been posting on Sundays, so we're gonna keep going with this. But, this time we're gonna flip onto the hip-hop side of things with an Essential Mix from New York City DJ and producer Mark Ronson.

I actually first came to Ronson through his phenomenal remix of Air's "Alpha Beta Gaga." As my readers know, I cannot stand indie hip-hop, backpacker stuff, whatever. I've always wondered if it was more a philosophical dislike as opposed to an aesthetic one and Ronson is the one person who has made that a possibility. Unlike the average Okayplayer fan, Ronson seems open to any type of music, despite his connections with the hip-hop scene. He's producing songs for Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse, remixing Air, breaking out of the obnoxious, self-contained indie hip-hip world that seems only able to attack the mainstream and popular musics.

The mix is good, covering every genre every invented. Lots of surprises like Billy Bragg, The Strokes and Regina Spektor (!!!) will jump out at you. What really comes across to me is how uplifting and energetic Ronson's sound and mix are. In particular, he seems to stay away from the preachy hip-hop and stick more to the stuff that hearkens back to the old-school, catchy verses, fun refrain, non-political topics. The lack of an edge probably means that there won't be many repeat listens or a deep connection, but there's something to be said for a reminder that music doesn't have to be all sad ballads, booty trax and whatnot. Give it a listen, will probably turner to a darker mix next week.

Philadelphyinz, Blow Up LA and more

This one was a pretty easy call for party of the night. I mean, the Philadelphyinz - Skinny Friedman & Apt One - are pretty safe bet always, but this one is the mixtape release party and the mixtape is called The Bar Mitzvah. Game over. To make it even more bananas, they've invited Mike T from Paradise at Key West to drop some italo/acid loveliness. It's free, it's at the Khyber, you'll get a CD.

-Let's call it a co-event of the night, as the Blow Up LA is pretty sick too. Anne Lee, Dirty Dave and Jefrodisiac have brought together all sorts of great DJs together - Acid Girls, Philly's own JHN RDN, Paparazzi, Dirty Lo, Ryan Esca. It's at a new spot this time called The Alley (516 Lindley Place), it's $6 before 11, Shadowscene will take your picture, you'll meet your future girlfriend.



-LA's Johnny Love from Guns 'n' Bombs is in Charlotte, NC tonight, yes Charlotte baby! He's joining Fit For Use, Christian Ryan and honestly, i have no idea what that name says. Much apologies to Blngx but I just know what reads. I'm an idiot and you would be to if you don't ghet to Eden (1400 Elizabeth Ave.) P.S. That's real good writing above.



-More Chicago. Before or after you hit up LDW at The Hideout, head over to the Dark Wave Disco at Sonotheque (1444 W. Chicago Ave). It's gonna be a pretty crazy night with DJs Are Not Rockstars spinning a special set. That's along with DJ Cat, Trancid and Mark Gertz. While you're there, you may get your photo snapped by Last Night's Party, guaranteeing you a solid myspace photo option for eternity.



-Big night in the Midwest, my bol Zoviet Panda does his Too Much Love party with guests The Glamour. This is an amazing party, one of the best indie dance nights in the country. So, Minneapolis, show some love to your bol, get to the First Avenue Mainroom (701 First Ave. North), pay your 3 bucks and dance like there is no tomorrow.



-Finally, the Midwest's finest Tactic are spinning with Ooah of the Glitch Mob. I've never seen a flier featuring a dude like that, so dude must be pretty amazing. It's at The Jackpot Saloon (943 Mass. St), $7 for a night of devastating bass.

Project Matt, Devin the Dude, Saturdazed

It may be a new format, but I'm still hyping my favorites. You already know that the best weekly Saturday night party in NYC is Saturdazed at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St). Well, Project Matt has done stepped it up even further. Tonight, you get a free show by Houston rap legend Devin the Dude. That's right, a free show by Devin the fucking Dude, along with DJ sets by Matt and Nick Catchdubs. RSVP to saturdazed@mac.com to get on the list. You seriously cannot miss this one, I am beyond excited. Holler at your bol, I'll be the one in the houndtooth scarf.

More party info to come, this one needed special attention.

Bald Eagle - The Wonderful World of Bald Eagle & Friends

Bald Eagle, The Wonderful World of Bald Eagle and Friends: Live at the Fuck Hut #1 (YSI link)

I've been hinting at this one all week and it's finally time to put up the first official mixtape by DJ Bald Eagle. I am so excited about this one for a few reasons. One, it's a dope mix, one of the best I've heard. Second, it's a chance to highlight an amazing DJ who has been slowly but surely making a name for himself and deserves to have a much wider audience now. Finally, it's an opportunity to discuss an entire city, Chicago, and scene that deserve more attention and love.

Bald Eagle, a.k.a. Chris Baronner, has been spinning for 5 years or so in Chicago, joining forces with DJ Mother Hubbard to start the Life During Wartime party in January 2003. It was a response to the fucked-up political climate of that time, a chance to get people together and have fun. Along with LDW, CB has spun with 2 Many DJs, Diplo, James Murphy, The Presets, spun at shows by The Rapture and Bloc Party, just so you don't get it twisted and think my dude has done the damn thing. Fun trivia fact: J2K of Flosstradamus actually got his start as the third member of LDW.

Anyway, this is the first official Bald Eagle mix and I'm so psyched to be able to put it up for everyone to hear. It's essential for anyone who likes the music we put up here on Pound for Pound. It's heavy on the indie-dance side, a nice mix of new and old, hard-to-find remixes, all done with skill and maximum dancefloor detonations. You never have that sense that any song is being chosen to show how deep the crates are, if you know what I mean. For those who like to get to the club at 2am for the peak hour, I'd highly recommend checking out a few of the hottest sections of this one - around the 17 minute mark when The Rapture's "W.A.Y.U.H." kicks in through to the Avalanches and then at the 36 minute mark (Shout Out Out Out) through the Basement Jaxx's "Make Me Sweat." But, I know that my wonderful readers are in it for the long haul, the Larry Birds of the club, first one in, last one out, so I know that y'all are gonna give this a full listen. Trust me, it's worth it. Tracklist is in the comments.

This is a special weekend for my bol, as his monthly jumpoff Life During Wartime is celebrating its fourth anniversary tonight and tommorrow night. It all goes down at The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia Ave.) and it's going to be incredible. Tonight, you get live shows by Sybris and Apteka, tomorrow night guest DJs Popstatic and Mister Wolf join in. Everyone Is Famous will be there to chronicle the pretty faces and crazy behavior. Time Out Chicago knows (dude, step your opening line game up, ugh) what's up. So does Gaper's Block.



4 years is an amazing accomplishment for any party; it's especially nice when it's one that values having an open scene where anyone can come through and dance and drink and kiss and be happy. Mazel tov to Chris and Mother Hubbard, 4 more years! 4 more years!

Finally, I hope that the people of Chicago appreciate what an amazing party they have here and what a great scene they've got going. I almost hate to turn my hype glare on it, but I have a good feeling that they can withstand it. For real, the rest of you need to start paying attention to what's going on in the middle. DJs and promoters, get at these dudes and ladies and bring them to the coasts, lose the attitude and recognize real talent. Get at Bald Eagle on myspace, friend him, thank him for the mix, book him for you next party or Bar Mitzvah, check out all of the other good Chicago people doing the damn thing. Most of all, listen to the mix, dance to it, make love to it, be happy to it.

!!!, Broadzilla and more

It's funny, Thursday has always been my favorite night to go out for as long ago as I can remember. It's basically a weekend night, none of the douchebags (I see you New Jersey) have hit the bridges yet, the parties tend to be more adventurous with loyal crowds. There's not the plethora of choices like Friday and Saturday, but sometimes choice doesn't mean quality. All of which is to say that tonight is a good example of why I love Thursdays and that some of the best parties in the world go down on this night. I'm giving top billing to Philly, because I love you, I will always love you, you are the greatest city ever formed.

First, there's an amazing show at the TLA tonight with !!! and Holy Fuck. Holy Fuck, I just looked and realized that I've never done a post on them. That will be remedied shortly; in the meantime, get your ticket for that show and see some of the best bands around today. Then, it's time for one of the best parties going right now and the heir to the 700 Club title, Broadzilla at Upstairs at Sal's. I've heard that there might be some special guests in the house tonight, guests who may have played a concert earlier that's mentioned a few sentences above. This party is taking off, tell your grandkids you were there when it was at a small spot.

-Also, make sure to walk a few block west to catch one of the last two Paradises at Key West (207 Juniper St.). There's no flier, but just trust me that this is one of the best parties I've ever been to. It takes place in the dancefloor above the gay bar Key West and the space has the greatest dancefloor ever with mirrors and mirroed ball and elevated DJ booth. It never quite got the crowd it deserved, but it had a nice long run playing italo, acid, classic house disco. Mike Simonetti has invited special guests DJs Stepchild and Operant 77 to drop the hottest italo and dirty acid. For real, if I could do a party, it would be just like this one.

-Thursdays in NYC are just as solid, giving you the full downtown experience. Hit up Even Further in the basment of Happy Ending (3 in Chinatown each and every week for that decadent, debauched disco madness. Once you descend the steps, you'll swear it's 1978. Okay, sorry about that, I was just practicing my blurb schitck for a second. For real, my bol Carmine P. Filthy, Mungi and Vida have put together a great weekly, which will be even greater with the return of Heather Facebreaker tonight. I want it to be known that I would take her name if we got married. That's a gully surname, gully indeed.



-Up in Chelsea, the Cheeky Bastard and GBH people continue to put on amazing event after amazing event at Hiro Ballroom (371 W. 16th St.). In fact, this one celebrates the 9th Anniversary of GBH, an amazing accomplishment. Tonight, you get a guest DJ set by Fedde Le Grand (mp3 foreshadowing), but the real reason to go is to catch a live set by Men Women and Children featuring that dude Nick Hook. Put your name on the guest and get in for free. It's that simple.



-Boston continues to make noise and if the parties up there keep dropping fliers like this, I'll make this a Boston-only blog. Volume Productions presents Axis Thursdays at Axis (13 Lansdowne St.) with Hush and Bons and Kares. Don't know much about them, but I have faith.



-LA, feel like you live in a vapid, soul-destroying city. You may, but fight against it. Head to Vanguard (6021 Hollywood Blvd.) for Flavorpill's Party With A Purpose: Fair Trade edition. Yeah, yeah, laugh about the hipsters trying to do something good, blah blah blah. This is a great concept, great cause, good to see people trying to mix fun with seriousness. DJ sets by Franki Chan, Guns 'n' Bombs and She Wants Revenge should let you know that this is not to be missed. $20 admission, that money goes to clean water efforts in Africa.



-Okay, let's end in Chicago, as the next post is a mix from a Chicago bol and that city is really doin ' big things. Tonight, Debonair Thursdays go down at Debonair Social Club (1575 N. MIlwaukee Ave.). You get Trancid and Mark Gertz every week, tonight Dani Deahl joins them. It's hosted by Paul in Chicago and Discosteed, it is good.

DJ Slugo - Wouldn't You Like To Be A Hoe

DJ Slugo, "Shake That Ass" (YSI link)

DJ Slugo, "Wouldn't You Like To Be A Hoe" (YSI link)

DJ Slugo, "Telegraph It" (YSI link)

I wanted to do a short and sweet post, as I'm going to be in transit today. I can't think of a better 12" to discuss in that case than DJ Slugo's Taris Is Paris EP. DJ Slugo is one of the kings of the Chicago booty house/juke scene. He's dropped some of the dopest songs of the last decade and a half for such legendary labels as Dance Mania and Databass. This one came out in 1995 on Dance Mania, at the very beginning of Slugo's recorded output. "Wouldn't You Like To Be A Hoe" is a stone-cold classic, essential for anyone who wants to understand booty music. Your life is better once you've heard it. End of transmission.

High Voltage and More

It may be a new format, but that doesn't mean that we're going to stop hyping our favorites. You know our Wednesday night favorite, High Voltage at Sutra in the East Village! For real, I've been talking about this one since the beginning, but Dimitry and Jason don't need me anymore. They've turned this into one of the best parties in the city, let along the best Wednesday night jawn. It's got everything you want - great DJs, tons of special guests, great music (on the rock and dance side of the ledger), open bar, attractive people who will offset my unattractiveness, err, I mean, whatever, shutup. Tonight's no exception, as the Sweatshop Labor bols are guest spinning, along with Gina Bon Jersey and Jenny Penny, there's the Zygo open bar from 11-12. My favorite part is that there's going to be a special appearance by the girls of Godsgirls.com, which appears to be some sort of indie porn (I almost got thrown out of this cafe for that click-over). As loyal readers know, there's nothing Pound for Pound likes more than naked indie girls, so this is like a

-Down in Chinatown, Moonwalk goes down at Happy Ending (302 Broome St.) Resident DJs Rezound and Workweek of War and Moon have invited Frog a.k.a. Dances With White Girls to drop some dance-y music. Also, my bol David Bruno of Slap You In Public has his Neon party, I guess on whichever floor Moonwalk isn't on. Just go and get lost and dance whereever you feel like it.



-Back in Philly, Mike Simonetti is the special guest for tonight's Hurrah at Upstairs at Sal's and that's a good thing. Simonetti is one of the masters of italodisco and that's a good thing.



-Dave P is spinning at the Khyber tonight as well, joining AJW for Driz Horse. No flier, but I promise this is true.

-Let's end with another great weekly party, this one out in LaLa Land. Moscow goes down every week at Boardners (1652 N. Cherokee). Tonight it's LA vs Vancouver, yes, Vancouver, as DJ Cam Dales comes down from the north to conquer our non-universal health care asses. DJ N holds it down for LA, and let's be honest, the entire United States of America. This ain't no simple dance party. Great flier, btw.



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Okkervil River - Black Sheep Boy

Okkervil River, "Black" (YSI link)

Okkervil River, "A Stone" (YSI link)

Okkervil River, "The Next Four Months" (YSI link)

Mang, I know it's not really fashionable to go back to music that's like a few years and old, but fuck blog conventions. That's a rock'n'roll attitude, people. Anyway, one of the great things about the iPod is that it allows you the chance to sort of stumble onto an old favorite that you may not have heard for awhile, while you scroll through the lists, desperately trying not to make eye contact with the guy in the eye patch across from you on the L. This happened to me recently, as I returned to Okkervil River's Black Sheep Boy.

This album is seriously one of the best indie, rock, whatever you want to call it albums I've heard. Ever. Every song works, some of them are phenomenal, the lyrics are brilliant and open and angry and sad and loving and cold. The music covers a good amount of territory, from Springsteen rocker to shambling country-western ballad. The songs above are my favorites from the original LP ("Black", "A Stone") and the only song that didn't make it on to either the original LP or the appendix EP. "The Next Four Months" was only released on the deluxe edition that came out recently.

I really don't want to blab on about these songs or this album, as it will only lessen the brilliance. Give a listen to "A Stone," which is so beautiful and sad that it makes me want to cry. It's this shuffling country rock song, something early Wilco fans or Neil Young people would get behind. But for me, it's the lyrics that makes this one a masterpiece. Will Sheff, lead singer and the main man behind Okkervil River, has this perfect that completely conveys the frustration and sadness at losing his woman because he isn't perfect and emotionless, a stone. I hear that, brother. The last part is stunning: "

And I think I believe that, if stones could dream, they'd dream of being laid side-by-side, piece-by-piece, and turned into a castle for some towering queen they're unable to know./And when that queen's daughter came of age, I think she'd be lovely and stubborn and brave,/and suitors would journey from kingdoms away to make themselves known./And I think that I know the bitter dismay of a lover who brought fresh bouquets every day/when she turned him away to remember some knave who once gave just one rose, one day, years ago..."

Stop what you are doing and immediately buy this album. I cannot recommend it more highly, as I consider one of the best albums of the past 5 years. I will be listening to this album forever, I hope that others will too.

NYC Pound for Pound Needs A Home

My dearest readers, I come to you for your help. I am in need of a new home here in New York City for June 1, as my current situation is coming to an end. Ideally, I'd like to stay close to my current apt, on the L in Williamsburg and Bushwick. I'd also like to not spend the money that Manhattanites spend. However, beggars can't be choosers and so none of this really matters. Please let me know if you know of an opening somewhere, if you yourself are looking for a roomate, even a sublet would work. Just something that gives me a place to stay and a internet connection, so that I can continue the Pound for Pound takeover of NYC. Please don't make me read anymore Craig's List postings from shady brokers, creepy men looking for sex and/or the jagoffs who can't write that they are only looking for women. Thanks in advance, y'all are the best.

This is gonna stay at the top for a minute, so just click below to find the new posts, which are gonna be going up later today.

-Speaking of Pound for Pound, a few quick updates. I'm going to be changing the format here starting today. I'm going to split up the music and party posts into seperate ones, as I've been sort of struggling to keep up with both. So, check in daily for the party info and a tad less frequently for the good tunes.

-I'm also going to start the plans for making this site more official and nice-looking. I'll probably start looking around for a web designer to help me take this to the real domain world and give you something nice to look at. If you think this could be you, get at me via email (upper-righthand corner) or on myspace. There's some other plans in the works for fun stuff, so hopefully this is the going to the web version of the Summer of George.

-"Springtime, you're gonna wish that we were friends/That we talked./You'll never feel so sure again./So now, they'll be no more lessons, no more cures/'Til you get yours baby, in the end." Indeed. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me a million times, shame on me.

Knight Action - Single Girl

Knight Action, "Single Girl" (YSI link)

I've got Chicago on my mind, so let's put up a stone-cold classic from the city that is windy. Knight Action's "Single Girl" is considered by some to be the first Chicago house track; I'm not gonna pretend I know the answer to that, but I can say that it is a definitive track for anyone looking to follow the history of dance music. This one sits at the juncture of disco & italo and full-fledged Chicago house, making it a pretty interesting track historically.

But, let's be honest, that shit's only interesting to nerds. You wanna know if it's any good, right? It is. In particular, this one is for the ladies. I know that we play a lot of shit that's about blow jobs and asses and titties, so hopefully this will prove that we are more than open to ladies doing their thing too. The lyrics are sooo great, I'm sure than you could figure out what it's about from the title. "I'm glad I'm single, I'm glad that I'm free/Now I can be the woman I always wanted to be" sings Sedenia. I feel like there's a great essay out there on feminism and dance music, esp. with the whole disco period. The track was produced by Duane Thamm Jr. and Mike Macharello in 1984, it was huge at the legendary Music Box by the biggest names of the time like Ron Hardy. This is not a jackin' track, it's actually a pretty mid-tempo song, a nice, relaxed flow that fits perfectly with the vocals (sung in this great, "sexy" voice). It's definitely a great tune for anyone looking to get into this type of music, as I don't think it's that far off the 80s sound in pop music with its vocals, synths and drum machines.

Before you go, make sure to cop the reissue of this single, which features an amazing B -side, "D'rail." This is well-worth the money. But, if you need more incentive, the original "Single Girl" 12" goes for $250+ on ebay, so cop it as I'm sure that you'll be able to make some money off of it at some point.

Spank Rock, The Afterparty and More

It's a pretty easy call tonight, as our bols Spank Rock play in New York City tonight at the new Highline Ballroom with special guest Ghostface. That's right, the Wu Tang Clan's Ghostface! I cannot even begin to explain how amazing this has been, to watch Naeem and XXXchange blow up. I mean, they were the stars of Coachella a few weeks ago, the next album is in the works, this is at a crazy, new venue that's huge. Go here and grab your tickets now and hit up an actual concert in NYC that deserves to sell-out and be hyped. I've said it once, I'll say it again: Spank Rock is the best show in the world right now, the Arrested Development of booty music.

-After that, hit up the Annex for the afterparty. This isn't just any afterparty, this is a part of the Tuesday night jawn at Annex, Lewd. It's brought to you by Genevalentine, my bols rekLES and SeanMuthafukkinRoberts spin that nasty, filthy shit. Tonight, they're joined by Cosmo Baker and Pase Rock in the booth. It's also free. I mean, are you reading that? You need to hit this up, which means that you must RSVP now. Shit will fill up, get there early. Seriously.



-That Philly Steven Bloodbath has his Tuesday weekly Love Buzz at Bar Noir (112 S. 18th St.). He's joined by Florida Josh, they will play lots of rock and metal and other stuff I'd probably love if I ever gave it a chance.



-Can you hear that? It's Chicago making more noise. Outdanced celebrates Jillian's birthday tonight at the Funky Buddha (729 Grand St.) I don't know Jillian, but she's clearly an amazing person, as she has DJ fucking Assault spinning at her party. Yes, you heard me. Assault is there, along with Danny the Wild Child, Matt Roan, E6 and Ian Hixxx. Free Sparks and $2 Jaeger shots from 10-11, I believe, so you won't really remember much of the night. RSVP to outdanced@yahoo.com for reduced admission, the rest of you prepare for the Bald Eagle to land tomorrow at Pound for Pound.

Switch Remixes 2004

Faithless, "Miss You Less, See You More (Switch remix)" (YSI link)

Jentina, "French Kisses (Switch's Jack the Box remix)" (YSI link)

What better follow-up to yesterday's mix than with a few remixes from the Switch bols from the year 2004? There's no better way, dammit! I really wanted to put up this remix of Faithless' "Miss You Less See You More," as it's fucking rager. You need this in your life, trust me. It's this jackin' house track, that honestly would sound like it came out this month. The first part is a stripped down affair, as the drums really dominate, with vocals and effects over top that all conspire to have you moving unstoppably. There's a strange breakdown in the middle, where the drums and stuff leave and a few weird voices come in speaking unintelligbly (to me, at least), then BOOM! A massive bassline comes in and the boys catch you off guard for a TKO. The second half is even better, as there are a few mini-breaks that give you an extra peak or two.

The other one is also less-known, overshadowed by the Chemical Brothers remixes of the same year. Jettina's "French Kisses" gets the Switch treatment and that's obviously a good thing. It sticks to a similar format of the other remix, turning the original into a bass-heavy house tune. There's some differences, as this one seems slight off-kilter, in a good way. The bass sounds almost-wobbly at times, giving it a less straight-ahead raging sound.

One thing that both have in common is that they utilize vocals throughout. While I love the non-vocal stuff, I think that coming from a more rap-based background, it's tracks like these that speak to me the most. Anyone else have similar feelings?

The Rub Up and More

Okay, so here's the new format. I may tweak it, I may not. But, I really like the idea of seperating the party stuff, as it will free up the music and my writing to be more consistent and better written and just allow me to not feel the pressure to get up posts to hype a party. Sound good? Here's a good first feature, as The Rub guys hit up Oxy Cottontail's Monday night Sway (305 Spring St.) jawn. DJ Ayres and Eleven are going to be doing a dancehall/reggae set tonight, which is so right for this weather and kicking the summer off. I actually haven't really mentioned the Rub guys very much, not for any bad reasons. I feel like they already have such a dedicated fan base that they don't really need the attention. But that's kind of stupid, as it's clear that these guys are taking the thing to all parts of the country and dropping lots of mixes and staying on the grind. So, hit this up tonight and everyone make sure to grab a copy of the 2Cd Rup Up, a great look at the genre in the 80s and 90s, an amazing purchase for anyone looking to explore this music further.

-Also downtown, the big names are out for Banana Split at 205 Christie. MeanRed Productions has brought DJ AM and Steve Aoki from LA to join up with NYC legend Stretch Armstrong and A-Trak. I like this bill, it should be a nice mix of indie and rap, hit up bananasplit@meanredproductions.com for rsvp and say "cherry on top" for entry. Seriously.



-Nashville, stand up! Our first posting from TN and it's a good one. Scion Presents Heist, which gives everyone in Al Gore's state a chance to hear their favorite new DJ, Le Castle Vania. You also get DJ Skeet Skeet from LA and Supreme from Seattle, all for free. Email rsvp@heistparty.com and you're all set. Well, then go to Layl'a Rul (909 20th Ave. South).



-Finally, one of LA's best, Genre, has your Monday night covered. Residents DJ S!n and Luv Tek have invited national DMC champion DJ Klever to spin, along with Light Down Low's Sleazemore. It should be a good way to party too much and force to drag your ass around for the rest of the week. You know you would be anyway. Cinespace (6356 Hollywood Blvd.), free before 11.

Switch - Essential Mix 11.01.04

Switch, Essential Mix for BBC Radio 1 11.01.04

There seemed to be some interest in these longer mixes from famous DJs, so I figured I'd keep going with a pretty big name around these parts, Switch. This is another mix for the Pete Tong BBC Radio 1 show, like last week's Daft Punk, a 2-hour show that sort of blends a typical club set with a little of the educational, here's some rarities and shit that we love set.

Take note that this show took place in late 2004, which means that Switch was a duo. Dave Taylor and Trevor Loveys were partners until recently, when Taylor became the sole name behind the moniker. Not sure how much this dynamic effects the contents of the mix, although I'm guessing it's not a big deal. That date is also interesting in that these guys were really just coming into their own, dropping a big Missy Elliot white label remix and a few others for big names like the Chemical Brothers, but the name 'Switch' didn't have the significance it does today or in 2006. What I'm saying is that Mr. Tong and whoever books the show really were on top of this one, it's such an amazing program, putting out so much great music weekly, giving listeners the chance to hear some of the greatest DJs in the world before you know they are.

This set is a good one, although not Daft Punk level imo. Actually, I think that this one might be more popular, as the boys utilize a fair amount of hip-hop vocal samples and interludes that nicely break up the dance music sounds. I know that there are a fair share of rap and indie kids who visit here, this might be a good one to listen to and see if this whole house music thing can work for you. Whadda ya say?

Richie Panic - Girls Night Out Mixx

Richie Panic, Girls Night Out Mixx

The West Coast invasion of Pound for Pound is just beginning, so many good people out on the opposite side doing amazing shit. I can't think of a better dude or a better mix to start off with than Mr. Richie Panic and his Girls Night Out Mixx.

To be straightforward, this mix blew me away. It's just phenomenal, really takes the indie dance sound but gives it some drugs, fucks it up and turns it into something new and original. This probably comes from the fact that Panic did mess with all of the tracks, as I believe everything is his own re-edit or remix. I think one listen and you'll feel like you are listening to something unique. I'll throw the tracklisting in the comments when I have it,

What makes all of this perfect is that starting tonight, MAY 12, the Frisco Disco returns, rising from the ashes like the Phoenix. This is one of those parties that every city desperately needs, one where the music is top-notch, you can hear the newest of the new, classics, all with attention to the dancefloor and not some lame hypebeast bloggers with their backs plastered to the wall, the vibe is open and perverted and debaucherous, and there's lots of girls in attendance. That right there is the recipe, it's not easy to get, but when it happens, it's your duty to be show support.



Get yourself tonight and every Saturday to The Transfer (198 Church St.), the Frisco Disco is back and the world is a better place. Also, make sure to holler at our bol on myspace, be his friend, thank him for the mix, get on some BFF shit. I'm hoping that this isn't the last time he makes an appearance at Pound for Pound.

Rub N Tug Remixes

Beastie Boys, "New York City (Rub N Tug vocal remix)"

!!!, "Hello? Is This Thing On? (Thomas N Eric's Rub N Tug Throwdown)" (YSI link)

Out Hud, "It's For You (Rub N Tug's Panarava mix)" (YSI link)

I mentioned them last night, since they were spinning at Lights Down Low in San Francisco, and I realized that I had never really done any posts on Rub N Tug, the NYC DJ/production duo. Thomas Bullock and Eric Duncan seem almost like secret weapons, dropping the occasional remix or mixtape every 6 months more or less, killing it and then kind of disappearing again into the ether again. It's frustrating, as I feel like these dudes should own shit right now, as their disco/house sound is perfect and they clearly are a key connector between the indie and dance scene.

But, they aren't really going back into the ether, as they have been always been party DJs first and foremost. They made their name in the 90s throwing some of the best parties NYC has seen, giant loft parties that were all about house music and disco and whatever done in a non-pretentious way where people could dance and drink and have fun. That simple. Remember those silly ideas, New York City? Anyway, read this bio from the Fabric website, as it talks a lot about the duo, the parties, their music. Hearing about the old loft jawns makes me almost sad, as I doubt those times are coming back again here.

Here's a few of the remixes they've done, including one of the absolute sickest songs ever, their remix of !!!'s "Hello? Is This Thing On?" This thing is fucking monster, like the weirdest, most hypnotic, brilliant song ever. This reminds me of the shit you hear about being played at the Hacienda back in the 80s, or at some weirdo mutant disco party in the 70s, 7+ minutes of dance music like you've never heard before.

This is a night for some of my favorite Philly and NYC DJs, like whoa.

-It's Saturday night, New York fucking City, you know where to be. Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St.). Saturdazed. Guest DJs Ghetto Gold Matt and Chasekills from Robots In A Coma. If you don't make this a weekly stop,



-In Brooklyn, my dude DJ Tiny Pants drops the fifth edition of Hi Tops and Hearts called Your Moms.



-Okay, she's not technically in NYC, but she's one of our favorite NYC DJs so get over yourself. Lauren Flax is still in London and tonight she's spinning at Motherfucker



-Monster




-Philadelphyinz



-Solobuns keeps it going this weekend with his biweekly 80s Party at Upstairs at Sal's (200 S. 12th St.) He's joined by the legendary Sean Agnew, he of R5 Productions fame. It's free and a chance to revel in that decade you don't really remember.



-D.C., D.C., D.C., good to see more shit happening down in that city. Will Eastman is definitely the dude to be following around, as he seems to be throwing the best shit with an emphasis on the dancefloor. Tonight, he's joined by Brian Billion for Room Service at the Rock & Roll Hotel (1353 H St. NE), a must-attend for anyone trying to have fun in the capital.



-More Tactic and Starkey mayhem in the Midwest with Korruption. Those dudes are joined by Seattle's K Streets and K.C.'s Bucho for another night of bass destruction with grime, techno, electro, dubstep, you know the deal. It's at KCMO (1717 W. 9th St.) in a neighborhood called West Bottoms, which I assume means something to be people out there.



-Chicago




-Finally, out west, we

Kavinsky - 1986

Kavinsky, "Dead Cruiser" (YSI link)

Kavinsky, "Testarossa Overdrive (SebastiAn remix)" (YSI link)

Ugh, I did a whole Thursday night post and then blogger had some outage and I lost it all. Apologies to the good parties last night and to DJ Technics whose songs I put up. We'll get back to them, but for right now, it's time for some Miami bass to kick off the weekend.

There is so much going on tonight, it's a little overwhelming. Big night for NYC, new party in Philly, Lights Down Low in SF and Lauren Flax in London and more.

-Let's kick it off with People Don't Dance No More, the monthly LES party that has been bringing in some of the best dance music DJs to NYC. Tonight's an extra special one to me, as David Bruno and Robot Blair turn their attention to my favorite city, Paris, and one of my favorite labels, Institubes. Institubes Paris Terror Club is taking over Element (Houston and Essex) with DJ sets from Das Glow and Curses! I spent the morning walking around the LES and my old haunts (shout out to Kossars and Delancey McDonalds, I have a big feeling about this one.



-The co-headliner tonight is going to be serious fun. The worst part about NYC is the fact that there' s no crazy parties in unique spots, it's always the same bars and clubs, it always costs a shitload to drink. Well, the Finger On The Pulse bols are back and trying to change that with a rager in the basment of The Charleston (174 Bedford Ave.) DJ Never Forget and Terry Diobolik are joined by Miss MK from the Hot Hens as they try to set Bedford Ave on fire. Figuratively speaking.



-I told you it's a big night in NYC. A little further north in Greenpoint, Fixed does its monthly thing at Studio B (259 Banker St.). Tonight the special guest is Zombie Nation from Modular doing a live set. Dave P and JDH will do their thing as well, and let me reiterate that these two have been putting on the best sets I've heard in a long time recently.



-Legendary New York party/DJ crewThe Rub have Brooklyn on lock, so it looks like they are going to try to make a surprise attack on the Meatpacking district and its beautiful people. It's nice to see the GBH folks are putting this on, good to see people going out of their boxes and just supporting good music. It's at Lotus (409 W. 14th St.) upstairs.



-I'm not sure if this flier arouses me or disturbs me but either way it's always good to have Stretch Armstrong out doing the damn thing. Another DJ who has floored me whenever I've had a chance to hear him spin, he's with the White Dove ladies tonight at Orchard Bar (200 Orchard St.), so stop by before or after you hit up PDDNM.



-Honestly, this could have been the event of the night. Fuck it, it is. Lights Down Low brings in the amazing Rub 'n' Tug for a guest DJ set. The NYC/Eskimo Records dudes join resident Sleazemore and DJ Omar and Richard Oh!? for a night of sick, dirty dance music. This is the best party in SF, get to 222 Club (222 Hyde and Turk) and find out for yourself.



-Yeah, Life During Wartime dance party is back for its bi-monthy spot. I'm gonna do some Chicago posts next week, as that city is not getting the love it deserves. Bald Eagle and Mother Hubbard have put together a night that has me taking notice. Go to Darkroom (2210 W. Chicago Ave) and appreciate what you have Windy City-ers. More to come, fa sho.



-Let's cross the ocean to let you know that our girl Lauren Flax is in London this weekend. Catch her Bosh! tonight at The Fly (New Oxford St.) with a ton of bands and DJs including fellow New Yorkers Dreamburger. Whenever I see the shit going on in London with the massive lineups and band/DJ mixtures, I get very jealous.


-DJ Almost Tropical, a.k.a. my girl Elizabeth, is spinning tonight a new bar in Berlin called Kim (Burnnenstrasse 10). It sounds like they are christening a new bar inside the place, not sure what they did before about drinking and stuff. But, I do know that Almost Tropical will kill it and that there is a wolf in the flier. Good enough for me.



-There's nothing I love more than when other cities realize that the greatest DJs are in Philly and always will be. If you want to have a good party, find a Philly DJ. Pound for Pound favorites Tactic are putting on Tight Werk in Kansas City, MO and have brought in Philly's Starkey from the Seclusiasis crew. Expect lots of bass, grime, dubstep, crunk, Balancas (1809 Grand) might never be the same.



-Finally, Hands and Knees is dead. Long live Last Nite On Earth. The M Room (15 W. Girard Ave) has a new Friday night party with DJ Solobuns from Upstairs at Sal's fame. I know you're going to miss H&K, but don't let your sadness prevent you from missing out on a great new addition to the Philly scene. If you don't believe me, maybe you'll believe this amazing Philadelphia Weekly writer who did a preview. Great flier, btw.

Audion - Just Fucking

Audion, "Just Fucking (Roman Flugel's 23 Positions In A One-Night Stand remix)" (YSI link)

Hot Chip, "No Fit State (Audion remix)" (YSI link)

I've been meaning to talk about Matthew Dear, Ghostly International and that whole techno scene in Ann Arbor. I can't think of a better way to start than with Dear's alter ego, Audion. Audion seems to allow Dear to pursue the booty part of his mind, the more house-oriented side of things. I went with one of his best singles, "Just Fucking" to get things started and give people a taste of what to expect. Whoa Nelly, the original is fucking rager from the start. It has a bassline is like a car engine being played by Larry Levan or something, sick and twisted and unstoppable. The remix is by Roman Flugel is a more subdued affair, featuring some gorgeous keys throughout. It doesn't have that bassline, which gives it a more minimal sound to my ears. It's beautiful, well-worth the download.

You know I love me some Hot Chip and love white labels even more. Bring them together and I'mma happy boy. Here Audion takes on a track from The Warning, "No Fit State." This one's much different, a sort minimal glitch remix of the original, almost draining the heart out of the Hot Chip version. Give it a chance though, as it might not sound great at first but it will with repeated listens. Headphones are a great idea, btw.

-I'm so excited for this one, people. My bol Dimitry is celebrating his birthday tonight and he's doing it in style at his own weekly party, High Voltage. For those who've taken my advice and got their asses out to this party already, you know that this is the best midweek jawn in the city, good DJs, good crowds, the whole deal. This one's gonna be extra special with guest DJs Eli Escobar and Ultragrrrl, vodka open bar from 11-12, Dimitry completely wasted and dancing on the dancefloor. I'll be in the house, you need to be too.

-Also make sure to hit up the latest Project Matt blastoff, this time at Savalas with Turntable Lab's Egg Foo Young. I'm hoping for lots of Dirty South bangers to knock some sense into all of my fellow Williamsburg hipsters



-LA, get to Awesometown tonight and be awesome. Dirty Dave and Anne Lee's jawn features a guest set by one of my fav deejays, Daniel from Le Disko. You also get a guest set by High Speed Dub from Get Famous, photos by shadowscene.com, and a record release party for Sea Wolf. It all goes down at The Bus Stop (1455 W. Sunset Blvd).



-Between LA and NYC, the Kampfire Killaz and Jordan Z do it rill big with the We Love Chicago party. That's so funny, as I totally love Chicago too! Get to the Continental (2801 W. Chicago) and feel the love vibes.



-Summer's is almost here and that means partying outside and on rooftops and in parks. The good people of Montreal have another option the entire month of May with Patio Lanterns at Vinyl (2109 Bleury). Brought to you by the Lookout Crew, every Wednesday in the month of May you can hear Huggs and Dojo spin and start the summer of '07 off right.



-If you're in Minneapolis, check out the !!! show at the Fineline (318 1st Avenue North), where our bol Soviet Panda is spinning beforehand. Flosstradamus cancelled, but I'd rather hear SP anyway. Grab your tickets here and have a blast.

-Finally, if you are in Philly, tune into radio station WKDU tonight from 7-9 to hear dance music don John Redden spin.

Houston's Back

Slim Thug, "Problem Wit Dat" (YSI link)

Paul Wall feat. Jermaine Dupri, "I'm Throwed" (YSI link)

I am working on a lot of little pieces for papers this week and am damn near burned out on words. But, there's a few good parties going off, so I just need to suck it up and put my fingers to the keyboard. It seems like a good time to get up a few more of the tracks coming out of Houston.

Let me first say, I love Slim Thug. There's just something about the voice, it sounds like it was already chopped and screwed. His rhymes are dope, he's got a great flow to my ears. However, I got to say that this song, "Problem Wit Dat," isn't really doing it for me. I think that the instrumental just doesn't work for me, it so doesn't fit Slim and that drawled voice and gangster vibe. It's a horns laden jawn, something I could imagine Swizz Beats dropping (wait, did he produce this?).

More successful is the Paul Wall song, "I'm Throwed," which features Jermaine Dupri in his usual shapeshifting form, suddenly materializing as a H-town producer banging screw and sippin' syrup. I know people like to hate on dude, as he sort of follows the trend or whatever, but there's no denying that he drops bangers and this one is real good. Listen to the theremin horror movie sounds right below the surface, it sounds soooooo good. Other than that, it's pretty standard Paul Wall verse, it's got a good refrain and is another reason to look forward to the Paul Wall album and whatever else comes out of Houston in the next few months.

-Not hard to pick the event of the night, when two of my favorite labels come together in LA. Modular and Dim Mak are doing the damn thing at Cinespace, which means that you get a live set by Softlightes and Head Like A Kite and DJ sets by Steve Aoki, Them Jeans and Dan-O. Did I mention the vodka open bar from 10-11 and that cobrasnake will be there to take your photos when the alcohol sets in. Yeah, you know you need to be at this. Oh, and I absolutely love the flier, the colors and design make me happy. If you did this, take a bow.



-My girl DJ Almost Tropical continues to hold it down in the world capital of dance music, Berlin. Tonight she is joined by Maxx at the King Kong Klub for a night of good music and fun. Oh, and there will be a special guest, who is a soon-to-be subject of a Pound for Pound post and opened for LCD Soundsystem in NYC and goes by the initials PTR. Okay, it's PlanningtoRock, the amazing musician who is about to take over the world.



-Finally, I've been called a jealous guy by a few people, namely those I have dated. Well, I've become a new man on that front and to prove it, I hype this party put on by one of my blog superiors, BIG STEREO. Hold Yr Horses has a great name, DJ Rchard Oh ?!, $3 cover, lots of good genres. Get to Aunt Charlie's (133 Turk and Taylor) every second and fourth Tuesday. But always remember that this is the greatest blog or we're broken up. Jaykay.



-

Daft Punk Essential Mix 2.03.97

Daft Punk, Essential Mix for BBC Radio 1 February 3, 1997 (Daft fucking Punk people!)

Okay, this is a new thing here at Pound for Pound. I'm gonna try to throw up some DJ sets by famous DJs, the kind that we've all heard of and get paid lots of money to spin and put out stuff on Fabric and things like that. You know what I'm sayin'. I figure that it could be an every Sunday thing or maybe an every other Sunday night thing. These are going to be much larger files, so I'm not sure if people are interested in downloading stuff like this. Please email me or leave comments and let me know what you think.

I can't think of a better set to kick things off with than an early DJ set by Daft Punk, patron saints of this blog. This one was done for Pete Tong's Essential Mix program on BBC Radio 1 back in 1997, when the duo were just beginning to blow up. It's a fucking dope set, 2 hours long, covering all sorts of musical ground. Listen in around the hour mark for some of the sickest, filthiest sounds you'll ever want to hear. Mang, download this!

-What do I love most? New parties! Here's the place to be tonight NYC, for the first Extended Play. Host Spencer and resident DJs Jermaine D. and Eric Tribs have started up a new weekly to take the weekend one more night. They're joined by guest DJs Nico XO and Gurj tonight, there'll be special guests every week, open vodka bar from 10-11, this is gonna be good. How good? It's going to end my boycott of The Delancey (168 Delancey St.), where I had a particularly nauseating experience involving, ugh, forget it, I don't even want to think about it. Fuck Murray Hill, btw. We'll be saying more about this party, a great addition to the scene.



-It looks like Sundays are the new Saturdays. San Fran gets into the action with Propaganda Intimate Discotheque. It happens every Sunday at Laszlo (2536 Mission), hosted by Meleksah, no cover, Jefrodisiac and Bertie P spinning tonight, see the flier for future May DJs. This sounds good.



-You know what else I love? Classic parties that do week after week, no excuses or letdowns. LA's Le Disko is the perfect example, doing the indie dance thing every Sunday night, making life better for all the beautiful people in Los Angeles. Tonight's edition is an LA vs ATL rumble, as Atlanta's Preston Craig drops by as a special guest, along with Dan Oh. Of course, Daniel, Paparazzi and Keith 2.0 hold it down as they do every week at the Spider Club at Avalon (1735 Vine St.). A true classic.



-What do I love most of all? Besides cute girls with bangs and boobs, that is. The Smiths! And Morrissey! Kyle M and Mike T have clearly

Visnadi - Racing Tracks

Visnadi, "Racing Tracks (Indianapolis drive mix)" (YSI link)

Since we did that old new rave thing yesterday, I wanted to throw up a little old rave, i.e. the actual music played at actual raves. This is a pretty crazy track here and it'll become apparent after a

-It feels like forever since Crimp Yr Hair bols dropped The Re-Up on Philly and so it deserves the top spot this Saturday night. One of the best parties in the city is joined by D.C.'s Stereo Faith of Sorted for a massive night of debauchery and dance. You know the details - Upstairs at Sal's, $1 beers 'til 11, the best music in the world. It's a monthly, don't miss it tonight or you have to wait til June!




-G-d, I love when my favorites come together to up the party ante. Project Matt brings in Nick Catchdubs as guest DJ for his weekly Saturday jawn at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St.) You already know about Matt, you know about Nick, you know about Saturdazed, no excuses. I'll be in the house, so you know it's gonna be real.



-Skinny Friedman and Tres Gueros are clearly the perfect way to celebrate your Cinco de Mayo. Tres Gueros? That's Spanish, people. I think. Seriously, one of my fav dudes from the Philadelphyinz is in NYC and you should see what it's all about. Rififi (332 E. 11th St.)



-It's a rave, Dave. Well, a 21st Century club rave at least called Masters of the Universe. Stop your hipster complaining (talking to myself on that one) and appreciate the fact that you can hear Moby spin an old school set. Yes, Moby. The dude with that shitty cafe in the LES. Just as cool, there's a live set by Institubes' Curses and Knifehandchop and DJ sets by the Cut and Trouble + Bass crews. Get your glow sticks and get to Studio B (259 Banker St.)



-Oooh shit, stop by Love Bridgade (103 Havermeyer St.) in Williamsburg for its grand reopening today, from 4-midnight. Tiny Pants is spinning, free beer and deals on all of their dope clothing.




-Minneapolis, where you at? If you are in that city, there's no other place to be than Too Much Love with that kid Soviet Panda. Every Saturday at First Ave (701 1st Ave. North), you get the chance to hear the best in electro, dance, indie, new wave and all sorts of good stuff, as good as anything going on anywhere in the country. Juan MacLean rolled through recently, tonight you get guest sets by Karl D and Mike the 2600 King. This party is so good, it'll make you forget the North Stars left town.




-Over on the West Coast, Rockognized presents Number Three at 1640 N. Spring St. Why do I love this party so much, despite never having heard about it before? Because they've made a great flier that references Three Amigos the movie and puts all of the relevant info right there, especially the fact that there are 6 bathrooms at the place. You also get lots of DJs like the Royal Rumble cats, Damager, Dan Sena and others.



-Finally, San Fran might have the rave spirit most in effect tonight with Gentleman's Techno. I'm mean, shit goes down at a spot called The Cave (3201 3rd St.)! Lots of good music, live set by two Tigerbass artists, C.L.A.W.S. to celebrate his new 12" release and the first show for Miffy. Lots of DJs, including Jefrodisiac, OonceOonce from Tigerbeat6, the Jealous Lovers DJ team and others, all for "five fucking bucks." Sounds good.

Trash Fashion - It's A Rave Dave

Trash Fashion, "It's A Rave, Dave" (YSI link)

Trash Fashion, "It's A Rave Dave (JEZ Grade 8 remix)" (YSI link)

I can't believe that I haven't put up this song by Trash Fashion yet. What is wrong with me? Anyone who receives emails or texts from me has already heard this phrase ad nauseaum for months, for that I apologize. I don't apologize for loving this song, even though I can imagine it being shredded by many as a gimmick or whatever.

-It's actually a sad day for Pound for Pound, as one of our favorite parties in the world comes to an end tonight. John Redden and Ian St. Laurent's weekly dance party Hands and Knees at The M Room calls it quits with one final indie blowout. Not sure what's next for these guys, but I'll obviously hype that to death as well. Get to Fishtown, say goodbye and party your brains out.

-Not too far away, another of Philly's classic parties goes down and takes this monthly to classic status. White Ts and White Belts has moved to the Ukie Club for good, the former home of Hollertronix, which was huge. But, tonight, they've got a special live performance by one of the best rappers alive, Peedi Crack! Peedi is in the building! So is emynd, Bo Bliz and Dan the Swede with their usual mix of bangers, rap, mashups, slow jamz, which combined with the $5 Obolons will make this the best night of the month for you, guaranteed. Beautiful/Decay, Afficial and Moloko know what's up, as they are helping bring this night to you.

-There's also First Friday at Upstairs at Sal's, featuring the DJs duos of Super Todd Bros and Oh Murder Inc (props for the Meyer Lanskyish reference). They promise electro, italo, disco and hip-hop. You should promise to be there.



-Look for a big Chicago post or two coming soon, in the meantime, check out this new party called The New Indie, going every Friday at Sonotheque (1444 Chicago Ave). Tonight's a big one with special guests from NYC A Touch Of Class spinning, joining that dude Bald Eagle for the night. Residents Jordan Z and DJ Pho look like they have something real nice on their hands with this one.



-If my bol Dimitry says you should be somewhere, I listen and agree. Thank him for this recommendation, as the Stolen Transmission party is back. I didn't know it was gone, to be honest, but it's nice to see another dope party in the East Village. Hit up Angels and Kings (11th btwn Aves. A+B), expect lots of emo and punk music, I think.




-Nearby, Trash at Rififi (332 E. 11th St.) happens like it does every Friday. DJ Jess and Alex Malfunction bring you that indielectropopunkrock tunes, while lots of beautiful people in skimpy clothes dance and look beautiful.



-Have you been to The Pull-Out Method at Club Midway (25 Ave. B) yet? Why not, may I ask? The POM ladies have put together a great party every other Friday in the East Village, doing the DJ and band thing brilliantly. Tonight's edition features the bands Ava Luna and Say Hello To Symphony (compared to Morrissey!!!!), Headz and Tails DJ all night. Get up on this one people, it's the new thing.

-Here's a few players, Pants Down at 200 Orchard. I have not been to this newish spot in the LES yet, but I'm a big fan of James F*kn Friedman and he's doing this every other Friday jawn and that's good enough for me. He's joined by fellow resident DJ Wiz and tonight's guests Super Family (Jamal Ali and Saheer Umar)


-Ahhh, Brooklyn is a little quiet tonight. But, you can always count on FUN at Studio B (259 Banker St.) to do the damn thing. This edition's called Blackout, which is something a little too close to home. Live performances by Bellmer Dolls and Fresh Kills and DJ sets by Eamon Harkin, Alex Chow and Jeralyn. Love the 2 for 1 drink specials from 2-3AM, seperate the wheat from the chaff, i.e. the people doing something tomorrow afternoon and those sleeping til 3.



-The West Coast is getting back into the swing of things again with Shake and Pop, which makes Santa Monica proud. Tonight LA's Dirty Dave swings by to make this one even doper, I'm actually going to dedicate this post to him, as I imagine he's the Dave they're talking to. Resident DJs Valida and C Town are holding down Zanzibar now (1301 N. 5th St.), 10 bucks, no Lew Alcindor.



-Finally, a new addition to the mix comes from San Fran with Mazdaratti. Even if I didn't think this was gonna be a dope party I would post it simply for the music they say they will play. Blog prog? Awesome. DJ Design and Rev. Underpants will also throw in all of the music that you hear here, except you get cheap beer and drinks while you listen to it and possibly get laid. It goes down at Anu (43 6th St. @ Mission), every First Friday. Get up on this now.

Theo Parrish - Ugly Edits 4

The Dells, "Get On Down (Theo Parrish re-edit)" (YSI link)

Minnie Ripperton, "Stick Together (Theo Parrish re-edit)" (YSI link)

It's another beautiful day, the kind that makes you forget your troubles. I had a great night last night as well and so I had to put up some beautiful, uplifting tunes, the kind that I don't normally give you guys. LOL ROTFL :) BRB. Here's volume 4 of Theo Parrish's Ugly Edits series, which we looked at last week. Not much more to add this time, it's just more gorgeous soul and r&b flavored disco and house that you should have in your life. This is love music, people, plain and simple. Play it when you watch someone vomit in your subway car (true story) and you will forget all about that and smile. Play it for your girl and just lay in bed together.

-If I could be one place in the world tonight, it would have to be in Paris. Actually, that applies for any day of the year, but especially tonight as a massive party jumps off. I will simply list the names at Scala tonight - Diplo, Low Budget, Switch, Sinden, Teki Latex, Surkin, Das Glow and Bobmo. Brought to you by Institubes. I will be in Paris before the end of the year. Get at me Parisians.



-G-d damn, those in Philly need to get their asses to Paradise at Key West for the chance to hear music just like the stuff above. Mike T and Ron Morelli's party is one of my favorites in the city, an homage to the old days when clubs were dark and anything can happen and the music helped those things happen. They're joined by Apt One of the Philadelphyinz and Shawn Ryan of Hurrah for a night of sleazy disco, italo, electro and house in one of the coolest dancefloors in the city. Mirrors, people, mirrors.

-There's no better way to celebrate this beautiful May day than partying with the Broadzilla crew. It's their weekly Upstairs at Sal's jawn, insect themed tonight. You already know how I hype this, stop sleeping.



-Have you ever wanted to spend like 8 hours at the same spot with only a staircase taking you from one party to the next? Well, Carmine P. Filthy has heard these wishes, which probably don't exist, and made it happen tonight at Happy Ending (302 Broome St.). Early in the night (6-10pm), it's Hustle & Glow which is all about the great sounds of the 70s. Can I just say how necessary this is? Music is done by Louis Gorbea and Brad Lebeau, all brought to you by The Get Down. After that, hit the basement for Even Further with Mr. Filthy spinning.



-A little further up, that kid DJ Tiny Pants and Alyssa Key are doing a DJ set from 12-1 at Lit (93 2nd Ave) for Neu Berlin! They're joining DJ Ash, James the 808 and Paisley Longthrob (do better) for a night of new wave, acid. Not sure what the connection to Berlin is, but I do know that DJ TP and AK will kill it and you will order Sparks without shame and you will have a good time.



-Or spend your night with Dimitry, first at Rebel for a Theo and the Skyscrapers show, then our bol heads to Home Sweet Home to DJ with the Sweatshop Labor DJs from 11-12 and then finally he's hosting as always at the Thursday night Cheeky Bastard madness at Hiro Ballroom (371 W. 16th St.). Tonight, 33HZ plays live, although I'm most excited about the DJ set from Ursala 1000. Oh and the Brazilian Girls are there too.



-Late Update: I thought the West Coast was catching up lost sleep from Coachella and Ed Banger and Check Yo Ponytail, but no siree. SF's Sleazemore is out, guest DJing at Voda (56 Belden Place), a swank looking lounge so you can get your sexy on. He joins residents and Polocorp and Nale for Voulez vous danser Darling?, which I think is the party name. FFR, being Parisian, French party names and sick fliers that look like Man Ray photos will guarantee you coverage on Pound for Pound. Just FFR.

Spektrum - May Day

Spektrum, "May Day" (YSI link)

Spektrum, "May Day (Tramp! remix)" (YSI link)

Spektrum, "May Day (DJ T remix)" (YSI link)

As I mentioned in the previous post, today is May Day, the rest of the world's Labor Day, to speak in hideously America-centric terms. It's a day for workers and unions, although it's really become synonymous as a time for protest and disobedience. The original reason for the day has been obscured over the years, but it first came about as a day to remember the Haymarket Riots of 1868 martyrs.

I think that one of the main complaints for a lot of people with dance and pop music is the lack of political commitment or protest. While I actually kinda like that fact, I think it tends to obscure the history of dance music and in particular how a music can be radical and world-changing without coming right out and saying so. Spektrum should appeal to fans looking for a more explicit political message in their music, as their song "May Day" celebrates this most radical of holidays. It's a good track, a sort electro-punk number that sounds great and angry at the same time. The key aspect is that it doesn't come across as preachy, instead conveying the excitement and energy of the situation.

Ironically, confirming my status as a pussy apolitical hipster, it's the remix with almost no lyrics that is the best of the bunch. DJ T puts on a sick sick reworking, turning the original into an electro-house burner that you never want to end. DJ T, a.k.a. Thomas Koch, is a big part of the Get Physical label and scene, and this reminds me that it's long overdue that I took a look at them.

-Some political links to come, it's been a long day.

Gang of Four - To Hell With Poverty

Gang of Four, "To Hell With Poverty" (YSI link) 256

Gang of Four, "Capital (It Fails Us Now)" (YSI link) 320

Gang of Four, "To Hell With Poverty (Go Home Productions remix)" (YSI link)

In case you didn't know it, today is May Day, the international celebration of labor for those not in the U.S. It's a day for protest and action, seen in the streets of most US cities today in the form of immigration rights marches. I couldn't think of a more perfect post for Pound for Pound today than a Gang of Four one. One of the great political acts of all-time, definers of the "post-punk' sound and a huge influence on this site and many of our favorite artists. Andy Gill, Jon King, Dave Allen and Hugo Burnham took the spirit and political of (most) punk and combined it with a more angular, jagged sound that sounds perfect to my ears.

"To Hell With Poverty" has always been the definitive Go4 song for me, maybe not their best, but the one I always think of first when I hear their name. There's something that sort of sums up the whole band right here - the political lyrics, the defiance ("To hell with poverty/We'll get drunk on cheap wine!"), the razor-edge guitars, the amazing, rhythmic bass and drums. It's like they knew what my criticisms of punk would be before I was even born, made them happen and gave birth to one of the most interesting periods in music history. I've thrown in the remix by Go Home Productions a.k.a. Mark Vidler. It might be a little more useful to DJs, as he takes the original, throwns in a dance beat and seems to sort of clear up the sound (reducing the feedback, the vocals sound clearer, etc.) Finally, I put up the B side to the original "To Hell With Poverty" 12", "Capital (It Fails Us Now)." This honestly could just as easily replace the A side, it's got a very similar feel and sound.

Go here and get started on the Gang of Four discography if you haven't already. I'd highly recommend grabbing A Brief History of the Twentieth Century, the compilation that collects all of their most highly regarded songs and chronicles the development of their sound.

-If you're LA, be here. Cinespace hosts one of the sickest parties ever, as Ed Banger, Dim Mak and Cobrasnake join forces again to blow your fucking minds. I mean, seriously, take a look at the line-up - Busy P, DJ Mehdi, So Me, Soulwax, Steve Aoki, Guns 'n' Bombs, Them Jeans, Le Castle Vania and more. I mean, I'm speechless. The revolution starts here.



-Or be here. This too is one of the sickest parties ever, a celebration of one of the best weeklies in the country, Check Yo' Ponytail. Spank Rock and Flosstradamus are the special anniversary guests, joining a live set by Muscles and resident DJs Franki Chan and Paparazzi for a bananas night. Congrats to Franki and all the people at Iheartcomix for what they've accomplished so far. It's only the beginning, as I know that they've got much bigger things coming down the road. Btw, sick, sick, sick flier. Take a bow if you made it.



-NYC holds up its end tonight with DJs Are Not Rockstars and Alexander Technique at Mr. Black (643 Broadway). It's a who's who of NYC royalty with guest DJs Lauren Flax, Denny Le Nimh, Pussy Cat and Van Scott, plus Last Night's Party will be there if you feel like getting naked in the bathroom. Oh and this is your last chance to say goodbye to Lauren Flax before she heads out for a European jaunt.



-The rest of you, go out and protest or read some Marx or support one of the good people runninh for office in Philly or get involved with Save Darfur or yell at people who go to Starbucks.